"If I am deported to Fiji, I will never get the chance to be with my family again. My siblings, cousins, and nieces and nephews all live in California. I will be thousands of miles away from the organizations that support me."

~Salesh Prasad, currently detained by Immigration Customs and Enforcement in Golden State Annex, Bakersfield

Join the growing list of supporters urging Governor Newsom to stop Sal's deportation, by granting him a pardon!

Salesh (Sal) Prasad came to the U.S. as a Lawful Permanent Resident at the age of 6. As a child, Sal experienced domestic violence within his household, and was sexually abused by an adult male acquaintance. The abuse pushed him to seek protection from gang members, and to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol. 

At age 22, Sal took a person’s life during an altercation. He served 27 years in prison for this and was found eligible for release from prison due to his rehabilitation and remorse. However, in August 2021, after being found eligible for parole, instead of being released to the community, he was directly transferred from prison to ICE Custody at Golden State Annex. Shortly after he was detained by ICE, his mother passed away from COVID, and ICE denied him the opportunity to be released, even temporarily, to say goodbye or to attend her funeral. He has been detained by ICE for over nine months now.

Sal is now 50 years old. While incarcerated, Sal focused on healing, rehabilitation, and change. He has healed from the abuse that he suffered through therapy and through reflecting on the transition he has made from victim to survivor. He reflected on the harm that he had caused and the incredible remorse he holds. He became a leader in prison and strives to help others who are incarcerated in order to fulfill his goal in life to help people rather than hurt them. Sal’s personal growth, community service, and strong ties to the community since his incarceration clearly demonstrates the efforts he has made to rebuild his life and give back to others.

Even though Sal faces persecution if he were to be deported to Fiji given his queer identity, an Immigration Judge denied his claim. One of the only ways we can stop Sal's deportation is for a Governor's pardon.

Urge Governor Newsom to pardon Sal by signing this petition and sharing with others!

Sal deserves to be able to go home to his family and start his life over again, in his community. 

#FreeSal!!