On Tuesday morning, September 1, 2026, César Cepeda Gomez was taken by ICE from the parking lot at Wal-Mart, where he worked. César is a valued member of the Bloomington community and a hardworking, loving partner who helped support a shared household with his partner and her child. He also helped care for his sick mother and other family members in Venezuela. César lawfully entered the United States and has a pending asylum case, yet he now faces prolonged detention, legal challenges, and the possibility of deportation despite having no criminal record.

Friends of César and his partner are raising funds to help him through this crisis. Donations will go toward the legal fees needed to pursue immigration bond and continue fighting his asylum case, as well as provide support for his partner and family while he is detained. If removal and relocation become necessary, funds will also help cover those costs. César has shared that he may be transferred from Indiana to Michigan, and the uncertainty ahead is frightening and expensive for everyone who loves him.

Please consider giving if you are able, and sharing César’s story with others. Every act of support can help ease the burden on César and his loved ones during this painful time. Thank you, gracias, for standing with César and his family in solidarity.