My uncle, Ung Soryadvongsa was unexpectedly detained by ICE in San Diego County on Tuesday, September 23rd. He has lived in America for over 40 years, since he was just 8 years old, when he immigrated with his family from Laos under a sponsorship program. The US is the only home he has ever known.

Like many who face hardships early in life, Ung made mistakes when he was younger. He served his time, repaid his debt to society, and has since rebuilt his life with commitment and integrity. He has been routinely checking in with his probation officer, holding a full-time job, and being a source of light to our family.

But on one of these regular check-ins, instead of seeing his probation officer, he was met by ICE officers. We believe he is being wrongfully targeted for deportation over charges from many years ago. Our family is heartbroken knowing he is now living in discomfort and uncertainty while in ICE custody.

Ung has not been to Laos since he was a child. Being deported would mean being sent to a country he doesn’t know, without the support of family, community, or stability.

We are hoping to raise funds to:

• Secure a Lao-speaking immigration lawyer who can help us fight for him

• Provide resources for him if he is unfortunately deported, so he can survive and rebuild

Our family loves him deeply, and we believe everyone deserves a chance to live with dignity after they’ve paid their dues. Any support whether it be through donations, sharing this page, or keeping Ung in your thoughts would sincerely mean the world to us.

In addition, if you know of immigration lawyers, legal aid organizations, or community services that may be able to help Ung, please reach out to our family. Connections and resources are just as valuable as financial help right now.

Thank you so much for reading Uncle Ung’s story!!