Hello Everyone,

Meet Meline Davtian and her six-year-old daughter, Arina. They arrived from Russia last year to join the rest of their family here in LA. Arina quickly fell in love with the California sun, and Meline enrolled in classes at Glendale Adult School to learn English. They immediately began working with an immigration attorney so that they can stay in the US legally. Meline was a dentist in Siberia and was so excited to learn English and take her exams so she can practice here.

I met them through their mother and immediately sensed Meline’s radiance and kindness. She is a wonderful, curious person who is eager to contribute to society and her community. Arina is a quick-witted little girl with an interest in science. She loves swimming and dance, and she quickly took to my toddler son, showing him dances and doing yoga with him in the park.

On Sunday, Aug 10, 2025, Meline and Arina were returning home from Arina’s dance lessons when they were detained by ICE in front of their home. Before her family could do anything to help, mother and daughter were arrested and transported to a detention facility in Texas by Sunday night. They have no criminal record. They’ve followed the exact protocols and laws and did not resist the agents.

The family is distraught. Arina is scared and hungry and just wants to come home. Meline is trying to be strong for her daughter.

The family has hired an attorney to try and bring Meline and Arina home until their hearing date in October. As you can imagine, the attorney’s fees are high and there’s no end in sight.

I created this GoFundMe in hopes that I can help raise donations for their attorney's fees. Please consider donating to help bring this beautiful family together again.

Thank you.