Deported, But Not Defeated: Help a Friend Start Over Safely

I’m reaching out on behalf of someone incredibly close to my heart; a dear friend who has become more like family to me. He’s young, kind, resilient, and full of faith. A few years ago, he fled Venezuela with his mother and younger brother, seeking safety and a future free from fear. The political corruption and extreme violence back home made it impossible for him to stay, especially as a gay man in a country where the LGBTQ+ community faces discrimination, abuse, and even danger from government officials themselves.

He came to the U.S. with hope. He worked hard, sometimes multiple jobs at once, helping his family survive. He paid taxes, built his credit, and truly poured his heart into being a contributing member of society. He believed in the promise of this country. He even celebrated the Fourth of July every year with such pride.

But a couple weeks ago, he received devastating news. His asylum has been denied, and he now faces deportation.

Only he received the deportation order - his mother and brother remain here. After recently relocating to Atlanta in hopes of more opportunity, this news hit like a freight train. Now he must return to Venezuela, a place that is no longer safe for him, before he can pursue a long-term plan to reunite with extended family in Spain. He is committed to following all legal processes and doing things the right way. That’s the kind of person he is. But this path comes at a heartbreaking and unexpected cost.

We are trying to raise funds to help him safely leave Venezuela as soon as he legally can, and begin a new chapter in Spain, where he can finally breathe, live authentically, and rebuild.

Every dollar raised will go toward:

He would never ask for help himself, which is why I’m doing this for him. He deserves so much more than fear and uncertainty. He deserves a chance at peace, stability, and a future.

Please consider donating or sharing.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. You have no idea how much it means.