It is with a heavy heart that I share the news that Raul Salas, a beloved friend, coworker, community member and father is currently being detained by ICE in Orange County and is possibly facing deportation.

Raul was arrested by ICE after a minor traffic infraction and has been detained for nearly two weeks without further notice. A lawyer has been hired to represent his case and is working to help him gain legal asylum in the US.  His family, who all reside in Los Angeles, is currently in desperate need for financial assistance and there is no clear timeline for his release.

I completely believe in and stand behind Raul and his commitment to his work, his family and his community. I have worked with him over the past 10 years as he has helped myself and others with several community-centered projects including my business EVERYBODY,  a radically inclusive gym located in Los Angeles. 

I deeply honor the time and skill and devotion that Raul has provided and I want to in turn make sure his family is taken care of during this  uncertain time.

Raul is a father of four girls and one boy. His youngest daugther Molly, pictured here with his wife, is 3. His wife in particular, also pictured,  is currently facing an uncertain future with their 4 children, all of whom were born in the US and are enrolled in school, from preschool to college. 

We have set a goal of 25K to cover legal fees and family support for the next 6 months as a trial and court proceedings could well take several months to complete. We want to make sure that the family is not saddled with exorbitant legal fees and unmanageable financial strain.

I know there is no shortage of causes and people to support right now, but I ask that if you have the ability, please consider donating to support Raul and his family. Help us show this family that there are those who oppose the immigration policy of the current administration enough to directly fund the support of worthy asylum seekers.

Raul is a kind, hardworking and devoted man who would be nothing but an asset to this country if granted citizenship.  If separated from his family, he would be forced to return to the violent, chaotic and corrupt society in Mexico that he fled when he came to the US nearly 20 years ago as a 17-year-old.

The funds are being directed to pay for legal fees by longtime friends Tamara and Michael Bergman who have known Raul and his family for 20 years.

I personally thank you for your generosity as we reaffirm what this country really stands for, one pledge at a time, during this holiday season and beyond.