Help Support a Single Mother While She is in Detention

My name is Leeann Culbreath, and I am an Episcopal Priest. I am writing on behalf of Pauline Binam, who I have known since 2018.

I am joined by a coalition of organizations supporting Pauline, including UndocuBlack Network, Black Alliance for Just Immigration, Black LGBTQ+ Migrants Project and Black Diaspora Liberty Initiative. Together we request your support of Pauline during an incredible difficult time. Pauline is a devoted single mother, and since December 2025, has been held at Stewart Detention Center, a facility with extensive report of medical neglect, detention deaths, abuse in solitary confinement, and inhumane living conditions. Pauline report that she has experienced poor conditions at Stewart, including inadequate running water, cold showers, volatile staff, and unclean and broken facilities.

This is the second time that Pauline has been detained by ICE. For about two years Pauline was also held at Irwin County Detention Center, where I first met her as a visitation volunteer. Pauline endured inhumane treatment during her time at ICDC and she confided in me about how part of her fallopian tube was removed without her consent. Now that Pauline is detained by ICE a second time, she is apprehensive to seek medical care out of fear that she may experience medical mistreatment. Pauline is experiencing abdominal pain and other medical needs, but is not comfortable seeking treatment to address them.

Pauline detention have also had a devastating impact on her now 17 year old daughter, Samiyah, and have created instability for Pauline's entire family, including her parents and siblings. Pauline has always worked hard to ensure her daughter had a safe home, there was food on the table and her family had the support they needed. With her unable to work and care for her family directly, everyday expenses are becoming overwhelming. Since her detention, Pauline's daughter has been experiencing a mental health crises leading to institutionalization at multiple mental health facilities. Not being able to be there to support Samiyah through this has been devastating to Pauline, especially knowing firsthand the impact of institutionalized violence.

Funds raised will help cover expenses Pauline incurs while detained, or once released from detention. These expenses include:

Every donation, no matter the size, will help provide stability and support for her daughter and family while they navigate this difficult situation. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this fundraiser with your friends, family and community. If you are someone who practice prayer, I hope you will join me in praying for Pauline and Samiyah-for their freedom, stability, and healing.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support. Your help will make a meaningful difference for a family facing an uncertain future.

With gratitude,

The Rev. Leeann Culbreath.