Sandra and Latif have been happily married for 15 years, building a life together in New Jersey. Latif has lived in the U.S. for 38 years after immigrating from Morocco. His spousal petition had been approved by immigration years ago.

But two months ago, everything was upended. On August 11, Sandra and Latif were boarding a plane to Florida for a vacation they had saved months to afford when they were suddenly swarmed by plainclothes ICE agents. Latif was taken away, and officers refused to tell them his charges or whether he would see a judge.

Since then, Latif has faced terrible living conditions: threats and bullying from ICE agents, and very little food, water, or access to showers. A few times, he was even deprived of sleep and brought to the airport, almost forced onto a plane. Between September 25 and October 1, he was completely missing from the system. Sandra had no idea where he was or why he hadn’t called. She has since had to engage the help of their state Senator to assist in locating Latif. The emotional and mental impact of this was immense.

On September 30, Latif’s deportation order was overturned—a huge victory! But the fight is far from over. He still faces weeks of legal battles, including applying for bond and beginning a new green card process.

This is not the first time Latif has been harmed by the immigration system. Over the years, his case was taken on by two NYC high-powered immigration lawyers who stole about $15k each before they were eventually charged and disbarred.

The financial toll of the past two months has been devastating. Legal fees are mounting, and with Latif detained, Sandra is left without her partner and their main source of income. Both Latif and Sandra will also need mental health support in the months and years to come.

Please consider giving to support Sandra and Latif as they navigate legal expenses and basic living costs. Every contribution helps bring Latif one step closer to freedom and back home to his family.