Help Bring My Dad Home - Detained by Ice

Hi, my name is Kylee Yang. I am the eldest daughter of Blong and Anna Yang. I am reaching out with a very heavy heart because we need your help!

On April 30, 2025, my dad was detained by ICE in Lakeland, Minnesota (between Woodbury and Hudson). He was on his way to work when he was apprehended.

Since my dad's abrupt detainment, our entire family has been shaken, and we are all heartbroken. We miss him so much and worry about his safety constantly!

His absence has caused deep emotional pain as well as financial strain. My family has unexpectedly lost a significant portion of their household income, and my mom and siblings are at risk of losing their home. My mom has missed multiple days of work due to stress and trying her best to navigate the legal system.

My parents have been married for almost 25 years and have built a beautiful life together. My dad is a loving father to me (23), my sister (21), and my two brothers (15 and 11). He is the strong foundation of our family, and without him, we are devastated.

My dad came to the United States as a refugee when he was just 2½ years old. His father was a war hero who was recruited and trained by the CIA and fought alongside U.S. forces during the Vietnam War, specifically the “Secret War” in Laos. After the U.S. withdrew, many Hmong people were persecuted or forced to flee. Because of my grandfather’s service to America, his family was granted refuge in America.

The United States is the only home my dad has ever known.

My dad has such a likable character. He’s funny, a peacemaker, and gets along with literally everyone. He loves sports and is a proud Minnesota Vikings fan. My dad enjoys family activities and all things outdoors - camping, hiking, ice fishing, biking, canoeing, golfing, and coaching us in our sports.

He has always been a hardworking, reliable man who is respected at work. He’s voluntarily taken on the role of union steward with Teamsters Local 120 - one of the largest unions in the country. He speaks proudly of his union and is highly committed to protecting his colleagues.

My dad’s detainment is based on mistakes that were made when he was young - mistakes that he has taken responsibility for and paid for almost 30 years ago. Since then, he has never had issues with the law and has lived a peaceful life, focused on family, work, and giving back to his community. His past does not define the man he is today.

If my dad is deported, it would tear him away from everything he’s ever known and loved. His absence has been especially painful for my younger brothers. They are at such a crucial point in their development. They need their dad to guide them, to show them what it means to be a kind, responsible man. His presence helps shape their identity, gives them strength, and teaches them how to navigate the world. Losing him now would leave a permanent void in their lives that no one else can fill.

We are trying to do everything we can to get my dad the fair and effective legal representation he deserves, so he can come home - where he belongs.

Legal fees alone are expected to exceed $15,000, and with the loss of my dad's income, they're struggling to cover even basic household expenses. We don't know when my dad will be able to come home, so there are more months of instability to come.

Please, if you can help, it would mean the world to us!

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a meaningful impact, and all donations will go directly to legal expenses and essential support for my mom and siblings during this devastating time.

Thank you for your compassion, your prayers, and your support.

-Kylee Yang and Family