My name is Caity, and I am raising funds on behalf of my dear friend Ozgur. On June 25th, Ozgur was unexpectedly detained by ICE. He has no criminal record and is currently being held at the Linn County Correctional Facility. Ozgur came to the United States in 2022 from Turkey and Ukraine during the Ukraine war, when his medical school went virtual due to the conflict. He had previously studied here on a student visa in 2018 and loved the experience, so he returned to continue his education at Kirkwood.
During his time here, the Israel and Palestine conflict broke out, and Ozgur was informed that if he returned to Turkey, he would be conscripted to war. He does not want to go back to his country to fight in wars he does not believe in. We’ve looked into applying for asylum, but the process is long, difficult, and daunting for anyone unfamiliar with the system. Ozgur’s family and I are deeply worried about how he will be treated and how long this ordeal may last. Ozgur has worked hard to build trust in his community in Iowa City. He is smart, has a good heart, and wants to continue studying medicine. Even in these tough times, he remains grateful for the kindness he has received and is thankful for the opportunity to stop smoking.
Ozgur’s family is still in Turkey and has no idea how to navigate our complicated legal system. He has me and a few close friends by his side. All funds raised will go toward legal fees and other expenses directly related to securing fair representation and assistance throughout the immigration process. Any contribution, regardless of size, will help ensure that Ozgur has access to the support needed to understand and exercise his legal rights, as we work to support Ozgur and fight for his release. His first court hearing is on July 9th. We ask that you please donate, however much you can. Any amount will add up and help us. Ozgur is a kind and gentle soul who just wants to live a peaceful and free life in the United States and still believes in what this country stands for. I will post any and all updates as I can on this page. Ozgur, his family, and I thank you from the bottoms of our hearts.
During his time here, the Israel and Palestine conflict broke out, and Ozgur was informed that if he returned to Turkey, he would be conscripted to war. He does not want to go back to his country to fight in wars he does not believe in. We’ve looked into applying for asylum, but the process is long, difficult, and daunting for anyone unfamiliar with the system. Ozgur’s family and I are deeply worried about how he will be treated and how long this ordeal may last. Ozgur has worked hard to build trust in his community in Iowa City. He is smart, has a good heart, and wants to continue studying medicine. Even in these tough times, he remains grateful for the kindness he has received and is thankful for the opportunity to stop smoking.
Ozgur’s family is still in Turkey and has no idea how to navigate our complicated legal system. He has me and a few close friends by his side. All funds raised will go toward legal fees and other expenses directly related to securing fair representation and assistance throughout the immigration process. Any contribution, regardless of size, will help ensure that Ozgur has access to the support needed to understand and exercise his legal rights, as we work to support Ozgur and fight for his release. His first court hearing is on July 9th. We ask that you please donate, however much you can. Any amount will add up and help us. Ozgur is a kind and gentle soul who just wants to live a peaceful and free life in the United States and still believes in what this country stands for. I will post any and all updates as I can on this page. Ozgur, his family, and I thank you from the bottoms of our hearts.