The mobilization to demand the release of Isaac Gallegos, a 19-year-old arrested by immigration agents, included on Sunday a call to write letters of support for his immigration case.
On Sunday, October 18, starting at 7:30 a.m., at the Immaculate Conception Church in Durham, free notary services were offered for those who intended to submit letters of support for Isaac.
The initiative is part of a campaign that has mobilized family, friends, and former schoolmates, as well as residents of Orange and Durham counties, since Isaac was arrested on October 7 during an appointment with immigration authorities in Charlotte, according to Isaac's family.
Letters of support to back Isaac's case
The purpose of the call was to gather stories written by various people who know Isaac and can demonstrate his links with the local community.
“These letters represent outstanding evidence that Isaac is a good young man, a committed worker who helps support his disabled father, as well as being a fundamental pillar for his mother and siblings,” the organizers explained in the Facebook post.
The announcement invited the entire community to attend the Immaculate Conception Church to receive free notary services.
Among other initiatives, there is the petition in Change.org which is collecting signatures to support Isaac's release and a fundraising effort in GoFundMe which aims to support the family with legal expenses and other needs.
A close-knit family awaits his return
Isaac is originally from Honduras and came to the United States at the age of 10. He attended Orange High School, where he played soccer. Later, he began working to help support his family.
His father, César Ríos, told Enlace Latino NC who suffered a car accident in 2025. The injuries prevented him from continuing to work in his profession and the operations that were subsequently carried out also had an impact on his work as an electrician.
Faced with this difficult situation, Isaac decided to take on greater responsibilities in the financial field.
“He practically took over the reins of the household when I had the accident,” Ríos reiterated.
According to his father, Isaac worked in several restaurants. Later, he got a job in the maintenance department of an apartment building. His most recent job included housing as part of his benefits package.
Ríos mentioned that his son was by his side throughout the entire recovery process.
“I go into his room and see his things, his bed and everything, just like before. I deeply feel the absence of my son,” the father expressed.
Related: More than 73% of minors before the Charlotte Immigration Court did not have a lawyer
A vigil brought together relatives and friends
The vigil was held on Thursday, October 15th at CCB Plaza in Durham.
During the event, family, friends, and residents displayed photographs of Isaac alongside signs with messages such as “Bring Isaac Home,” “Free Isaac Now,” and “Keep Families Together.”
Among those in attendance were friends, as well as former classmates of Isaac at Orange High School, who brought handmade signs to show their support.
The vigil was also attended by public officials, including the federal congresswoman. Valerie FousheeState Representative Renee Price and State Senator Jonah GarsonAlso in attendance were members of the Durham City Council, representatives of local governments, and members of school boards.
During the rally, Foushee expressed his support for the family, while Councilman Matt Kopac and Alexandra Valladares They participated in a song dedicated to Isaac.
“We never imagined he would have such great support as we have seen today at the event,” the father commented during an interview with Enlace Latino NC .
However, her greatest wish is to have her son back.
“Son, you are undoubtedly very important to me. You know I love you.” […] I love you with all the infinite fullness of my heart. “And soon we will have you here with us,” he said.
The event was organized on Facebook under the hashtag #BringIsaacHome and included the participation of family members and community members.
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Detained at an immigration appointment
According to César Ríos, Isaac was arrested On October 7, when he went, along with his parents and younger brother, to an appointment with immigration authorities in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The father indicated that the family periodically appeared before the authorities as their case progressed. asylum application.
According to his testimony, the investigating officers questioned the family members about the case. Afterward, they called Isaac and asked him to come to a separate room. After that, Isaac did not have the opportunity to meet with them again.
Ríos stated that his son has no criminal record and that the family currently has a pending asylum process.
Furthermore, he mentioned that Isaac was transferred to a detention center in Georgia. They have managed to contact him by phone on several occasions. While they await news about the case, his family and supporters continue to spread the word and seek community support.
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