I am submitting this petition on behalf of Rigoberto Lara Maldonado -- a hardworking, law-abiding member of our community who's facing an imminent risk of deportation. Many of you are familiar with him and his family, as they have been active members of our community for years. I have represented both Rigoberto and his wife in their immigration matters, witnessing first-hand just how deeply their roots have grown here. 

Rigoberto came to our country seeking better lives for himself and his family, the people he holds dearest. This is a common story for many immigrants, who make up approximately 13.7% of our country's population, according to the American Immigration Council. Yet, even with numbers that substantial, those seeking the very essence of the American dream—freedom, safety, opportunity—are often forced to interrupt their lives because of outdated, punitive immigration policies.

Rigoberto's story is one of perseverance, strength, and resolve. Deportation would not only upend his life but also the life of his family and those around him, disrupting a community that has come to rely on and appreciate this family's contribution. We must stand together, raising our voices in solidarity, calling for an end to this forced expulsion. This is not an act of clemency; it is a plea for justice—justice for Rigoberto and countless others in his situation.

Rigoberto is the father of three (3) United States citizens. His daughter immediately filed for him to become a permanent resident when she turned 21. However, the Immigration Court denied a motion to reopen his old order of deportation, a case from many years ago, and the SOLE reason he is now facing imminent deportation. 

BUT this is NOT a person whom the Biden Administration would consider a "priority" for deportation. He is not a criminal of any kind or some kind of fugitive or danger to his community. We have fought for years to reopen his old Court case. Yet, it is right NOW under THIS BIDEN Administration that DHS/ICE has contradicted its own enforcement priorities, & asked Rigoberto come in on August 23rd to "report" for his "removal" from the United States. 

Our collective action can make a massive difference. If we unite, we can affect change and stop the deportation of Rigoberto Lara Maldonado. Please, sign this petition, and call on DHS/ICE Office of Enforcement of Removal Operations as well as our lawmakers to listen to the human stories behind their actions.

Joel Mikelson, Chief of Staff

(954) 236-4940

joel.mikelson@ice.dhs.gov

Gerald Viera

Assistant Field Office Director

(786) 387 1556

gerald.viera@ice.dhs.gov

Wieda Deleon

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Immigration and Customs Enforcement                                

Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO)

2805 SW 145th Avenue

Miramar, FL 33027