The Menezes family is raising funds for Kwesi, our charming singer and dancer who was always loving, respectful and lending a helping hand. Kwesi’s passion and potential knew no end, but mental illness and injustice robbed him of his young life.

Kwesi was born in Georgetown, Guyana, and came to the United States when he was only two years old. In his early 20s, Kwesi became mentally ill (schizophrenia). He struggled with this for about 14 years while taking medication and fighting hard to get better.

Last year, ICE detained Kwesi and then deported him back to Guyana in April. What made his deportation illegal was him being a permanent resident who was denied due process. Being sent away from the only home he really knew was devastating, and after his deportation, his mental health worsened.

On Sunday, August 30th, Kwesi overdosed on his medication and had a seizure in his sleep. He passed away at 35 years old.

His family is heartbroken that he died in an unfamiliar place while longing to come home. These funds will help cover the cost of preserving Kwesi’s body while we work in hopes to bring him back to the United States. These will also cover the funeral expenses once he arrives, so that he may be buried with dignity in a place he would recognize.

(There are many details about Kwesi’s case and records that will come to light in legal proceedings. These have not yet been made public.)