1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am deeply disturbed by the recent deportation of Rabbiatu Kuyateh, a 58-year-old mother and grandmother who has lived in our community for three decades. This case exemplifies a grave injustice in our immigration system that demands immediate action. Kuyateh, who fled civil war in Sierra Leone, had been a law-abiding resident of the D.C. area for 30 years. She was detained during a routine ICE check-in in July, an action that has torn apart a family and community. Despite a judge's order preventing her deportation to Sierra Leone, she was sent to Ghana under the controversial third-country deportation program. The video footage of Kuyateh being forcibly dragged by individuals believed to be Ghanaian government workers is not only deeply troubling but raises serious questions about the treatment of deportees and the legality of these third-country deportations. This practice appears to violate international law and our own standards of human rights. I urge you to take immediate action to halt all third-country deportations and to work towards Rabbiatu Kuyateh's safe return to the United States. Her case should be thoroughly reviewed, considering her long-standing ties to our community and the apparent violations of her civil rights. Furthermore, I implore you to initiate a comprehensive review of our deportation policies, especially those implemented under the previous administration. We need immigration policies that reflect our values of compassion, family unity, and respect for human rights. The treatment of Rabbiatu Kuyateh is not just a singular incident but a symptom of a broader, systemic issue in our immigration enforcement. As your constituent, I ask you to champion legislation that prevents such cruel separations and ensures due process for all individuals facing deportation. Time is of the essence. Every day that passes is another day that Rabbiatu Kuyateh is unjustly separated from her family. Your swift action on this matter is crucial not only for her but for upholding the principles of justice and humanity in our immigration system.