Erika, a 24-year-old undocumented Guatemalan immigrant and recent Arizona resident, gave birth in Arizona after undergoing a traumatic migration experience to the United States. Having experienced domestic violence, the young mother emigrated from her country after crossing the U.S. border while eight months pregnant. She was arrested about 50 miles south of Tucson after spending two full days walking in the desert.
Erika’s case has drawn significant attention and concern regarding the treatment of mothers and infants amid ongoing immigration enforcement practices. Following her arrest, Erika’s attorney, Luis Campos, reported that she had received some bad news. She is currently going through expedited removal processes due to her unlawful entry into the country. Campos strongly asserted that Erika has the right to express her fear of returning back to Guatemala. She’s entitled to seek asylum.
Immediately after giving birth, Erika was transferred into the custody of ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations. There, she was given a future court date to show up in front of an immigration judge. At that time federal agents denied Campos access to Erika at a hospital in Tucson immediately after the birth. This decision leads to grave concerns regarding the way her case was processed.
Luckily, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has been aggressive about correcting Erika’s situation. Her office contacted forest service and local county officials to make sure that Erika and her newborn were cared for.
“Governor Hobbs has been clear in her opposition to inhumane immigration enforcement practices,” – A Hobbs spokesperson
The governor’s intervention comes amid growing concerns about the treatment of immigrant families, particularly those affected by harsh policies from the previous administration. Currently, Campos is optimistic that Erika will be released shortly. More than a week before its release, he hopes to hear either the day of his statement or the day following.
“The child remains with the mother,” – A CBP spokesperson
Erika lost her appeal and now awaits deportation. Her saga recounts the lawless fight that many immigrants still encounter today in search of safety and a new life here in the United States. Advocates such as Campos are lining up in her support. Yet now that state officials are receiving national attention, her case must serve to raise awareness around the need for humane immigration policies that uphold family unity and people’s individual rights.