Help Bring Fernando Home — A Beloved Union Brother Detained

Our friend, coworker, and union brother Fernando Rocha needs your help. 

Fernando has been a valued worker with IATSE Local 15, dedicating his skilled labor and knowledge both behind the scenes and onstage to bring art, theater, and live events to life in the Puget Sound area. As a Performing Arts Center Manager at Juanita High School, Fernando worked tirelessly so that students and audiences could enjoy the magic of performance. But now, his life and future have been thrown into chaos. 

Fernando was recently detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) without warning. He is an asylum seeker. He was taken from his home, his job, and his community. His absence is not just felt in the workplace. His family, friends, students and their parents, union siblings, and fellow theater creators are devastated. 

Fernando’s brother Victor is speaking on behalf of the family and confirms that Fernando's legal presence in the United States was being managed through the proper asylum channels. "He has done nothing wrong. He’s a good man, a hard worker, and our family is scared," Victor told us. "We’ve always done things the right way, but ICE grabbed him anyway." 

Victor further explained that Fernando has never been wanted for any crimes in Brazil, a claim made by ICE on their social media accounts, and that this detention came without any explanation, only fear and silence. “We’re in shock,” he said. “ICE refuses to tell us anything, and we don’t know what comes next. But we know he doesn’t deserve this.” 

This GoFundMe has been created to raise urgent funds for Fernando and his family: 

No one should be ripped away from their community for seeking a better life and doing honest work. Fernando has given so much to others, so it’s time for us to stand up for him. 

We are calling on all union members, workers, neighbors, and allies to show solidarity and compassion. Every dollar you give brings Fernando one step closer to freedom, and every share of this campaign spreads hope and support. 

All funds in excess of Fernando and his family’s needs may be donated to Immigrants' Rights organizations in the Puget Sound region. No funds donated will go to IATSE Local 15. 

Please donate what you can and help us bring Fernando home.

 

In solidarity, 

IATSE Local 15