Carlos L. Godinez has called Nebraska home for 37 years. He is a father, a business owner, and a prominent community figure in the region. On March 11, 2026, he was taken into ICE custody and is currently being held at Hall County Department of Corrections. We are asking you to stand with his family and demand his release.

Who is Carlos Godinez?

Carlos is the owner of Nick's Gyros, a Kearney restaurant first established in 1982 that he has proudly operated for more than 15 years. But his impact goes far beyond his restaurant. Through his business, he has sponsored and hosted community events, supported local organizations, and opened doors for college students at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. He is a father to two children — ages 11 and 13 — who live in Kearney and depend on him every single day.

In his own words:

"I came to this country on a plane at 10 years old, not knowing where we were going — only that I would see my father again. I was raised with the American belief that if you work hard, you earn your keep. I was also raised with the core value of serving my community and those around me because while my family and I did not come from much, we also know we have each reached success because someone along the way helped us, helped me. I made Nebraska my home with my 13- and 11-year-olds, surrounded by family and friends. I built a business, gave back to my community, and lived what I believe is the American Dream — which is now at risk of being taken away. I am not someone who typically asks for help but I know with my community in my corner, anything is possible."

— Carlos L. Godinez, Owner, Nick's Gyros, Kearney, Nebraska

Why this matters.

Carlos is not a threat. He is a neighbor, an employer, a mentor, and a community pillar who has spent nearly four decades building a life in Nebraska and lifting others along the way. His detention has created an immediate hardship for his young children and family and left a void in the community he has spent a lifetime serving. This is not what immigration enforcement was designed for.

What we are asking.

We call on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Nebraska Congressional Delegation, and all elected officials with the power to act to:

1. Release Carlos from ICE detention
2. Exercise prosecutorial discretion in recognition of his decades of community contributions
3. Return him to his children, his family, and the community that needs him

#NE4Los — Nebraska for Carlos. Kearney's Own. Bring Him Home.

To write a character letter on Carlos's behalf, email: NE4Los@gmail.com
For updates follow: facebook.com/kearney.nicks.2010
Contact: NE4Los@gmail.com | 402.431.2128