During a second hearing on Tuesday, April 28, the defense of transgender activist Suzy Gerónimo indicated that she will request asylum as part of her case to avoid deportation.
The hearing was administrative in nature. The immigration judge set the next hearing for May 12 and ordered the defense to submit Form I-589, along with supporting evidence. asylumbefore that date.
Attorney Beckie Moriello indicated to Enlace Latino NC Gerónimo's bail motion has not yet been filed, as his associates continue to gather supporting documentation.
“Since you generally only get one chance to apply for bail, with an exception in cases of changed circumstances, it is crucial that the first attempt be as strong as possible,” he explained.
Moriello, owner of Raleigh Immigration Law FirmShe said her firm is providing pro bono legal representation in the case. Attorney Allison Luckanich is handling the immigration case.
The legal team is also evaluating whether Geronimo might qualify for a T or U visa. immigration protections They are available to victims of human trafficking or certain crimes who cooperate with the authorities.
The case of Geronimo
Local officials Geronimo was arrested last month in Franklin County after a traffic stop, according to acquaintances.
After it was determined that she did not have regular immigration status, she was subsequently taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and remains at the Stewart Detention Center.
This second hearing marked a step forward in the case, following a first appearance in which only dates were scheduled.
Gender identity and conditions of detention
During the hearing, the defense reiterated that Gerónimo is a transgender woman.
The judge indicated that the court would address her with respect. However, she said she could not force all parties to use feminine pronouns.
The legal team also expressed concerns about his safety at the Stewart Detention Center, where he remains in a male unit.
The judge ordered an evaluation of possible accommodations related to his detention and suggested that the issue be addressed in greater depth at a future bail hearing.
Related: Trans activist detained by ICE in North Carolina; community organizes support
Support within the detention center
Gerónimo remains in communication with his legal team and allies.
According to Eliazar Posada, who has been in constant communication with Suzy and has visited her at the facilities this month, Gerónimo has gratefully received the community support, which includes donations to cover basic needs.
The executive director of Equality NC She also recounted how Gerónimo has used available resources to help other detainees. The transgender activist has shared phone calls and meals with those who cannot afford them.
“For the past two weeks, he’s been ordering extra food so he can give it to people who are in detention and don’t have the means to buy it,” said Posada, who is also the vice mayor of Carrboro. Enlace Latino NC.
According to Posada, these actions led the authorities to limit his access to communications.
“What she was doing was, in essence, what she did outside, in freedom. Supporting the community so that it could have resources,” Posada said.
Next steps
The hearing on May 12 is expected advance in the asylum application process.
Human rights organizations and community members have called for his release, highlighting his history of supporting immigrant and LGBTQ+ communities in North Carolina.
The financial aid fund remains open for those who wish to donate.
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