1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

The Issue ​We are witnessing an alarming and unprecedented escalation in the indiscriminate detention of individuals legally navigating the U.S. asylum process. Despite following every federal requirement—attending court dates and maintaining regular check-ins—thousands are being swept into a system of "mass detention" that disregards due process and basic human dignity. ​Most distressingly, this "law-and-order" dragnet has begun targeting the very pillars of our communities: Hispanic Christian pastors. Recent reports, including the detention of leaders like Pastor Yeison Cortes Vasquez in New Jersey, reveal a pattern of arresting faith leaders who are themselves in the asylum process while serving their congregations. These actions do not just target individuals; they terrorize entire faith communities and strip vulnerable populations of their spiritual and social lifelines. ​Why This Matters ​The Moral Cost: Detaining pastors—especially during sacred times like Holy Week and Easter—is a direct affront to religious freedom and the sanctity of community leadership. ​The Human Cost: Since early 2026, reports of medical neglect and "lawlessness" within detention centers have surged, with multiple deaths in custody highlighting the danger of these facilities. ​The Legal Cost: Federal judges have already ruled thousands of these detentions to be unlawful. Indiscriminate enforcement wastes millions in taxpayer dollars while violating the 4th Amendment. ​Our Demands ​We call on the Department of Homeland Security and ICE to: ​Immediate Release: Grant immediate parole to Pastor Yeison Cortes Vasquez and all other non-violent faith leaders and asylum seekers currently held without a flight or safety risk assessment. ​Respect Sensitive Locations: Reaffirm and strictly enforce policies that prohibit enforcement actions near churches and against community leaders providing spiritual care. ​End Indiscriminate Detention: Cease the "blanket" detention of asylum seekers who have complied with all legal requirements and court dates. ​Restore Oversight: Re-establish the authority of immigration courts to conduct individualized bond reviews to prevent unlawful and prolonged incarceration. ​Take Action ​The targeting of those who pray for and serve our communities is a line that must not be crossed.