Dr. Berhanu Kibret is more than an educator and teacher at the University of Maryland—he is a mentor, a researcher, a colleague, a friend, a father to two wonderful kids, a devoted husband and a valued member of his community. He has spent years supporting his students, contributing to his field, and giving back to the people around him.

Right now, Dr. Kibret is facing an incredibly difficult and uncertain time. He has been held in an ICE detention center since July 21, 2026. It has been more than a month since he was separated from his home, his loved ones, his students, and the community he cares so deeply about.

His detention has placed a tremendous emotional and financial strain on him and his family. They are now having to navigate a further immigration legal process while urgently working to secure his release and bring him home.

We are asking our community to stand with Dr. Kibret during this difficult time. Donations will help with immigration attorney fees, court and legal expenses, bond-related expenses and other necessary expenses related to his detention and efforts to secure his release.

Every contribution matters, your support can help ease the burden on Dr. Kibret and his loved ones. And if you are unable to donate, simply sharing this fundraiser with your friends, family, colleagues, students, and community can make a real difference.

Dr. Berhanu has spent his life investing in others. Now, it is our turn to show up for him. He deserves the chance to return home, reunite with his loved ones and students, continue his research and teaching, and keep contributing to the community he has dedicated himself to serving.

Please stand with Dr. Berhanu Kibret. Help us bring him home. Thank you for your generosity, your support, your prayers, and for helping spread the word.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9QnPAAz4ZA