BOSTON
– The American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts, the Boston Teachers Union, and the Massachusetts Teachers Association released the following statement Thursday in response to news that federal immigration Judge Jenny Beverly has ordered 18-year-old Marcelo Gomes da Silva, a Milford High School student arrested last weekend by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, be released on $2,000 bond:
“As educators, we are focused on justice and equal opportunities for all students. All children have a right to an education, no matter their immigration status. That right is protected by the U.S. Constitution and federal law prohibits anyone from attempting to restrict a child’s access to that education.
“But, by waging a campaign of blanket threats, labeling unintended detainees as simple collateral, and using xenophobic and racist rhetoric to stoke fear in our communities, the federal government is doing just that.
“We already are seeing the chilling effects of this. Kids are scared to come to school. We have children worried that the bus stop was the last place they might see their loved ones. Parents are watching their greatest fears play out with Marcelo’s detention. The psychological and emotional toll is devastating.
“When ICE was unable to detain its intended target, its agents decided to arrest a high-schooler on his way to volleyball practice.
“No one believes that the streets are suddenly safer because ICE has detained a high school honors student with no criminal record.
“Educators across the state and nation are ready to stand up and defend the rights and safety of their students. These are children – not collateral.
“To the many families and children who may be living in fear right now, please know that you are important, you matter, and you have rights. We are working to make sure our schools will remain safe spaces to learn and to go in times of need. We are here for you, and we want you here.”
Gomes da Silva was detained while driving his father’s car to volleyball practice. ICE agents stopped him during a traffic stop, intending to apprehend his father, Joao Paulo Gomes-Pereira, who is unlawfully present in the U.S. and has a history of reckless driving, including speeding over 100 mph in residential areas. Upon discovering Marcelo was also undocumented, ICE detained him. He was held at a Burlington detention center, later moved to Plymouth, under poor conditions, reportedly sleeping on a cement floor and sharing a single toilet with about 40 others. He also reported health issues, including flu-like symptoms, anxiety, and possible concussion symptoms from a prior volleyball game.
His attorney, Robin Nice, plans to pursue an asylum claim.
Gomes da Silva came to the United States lawfully from Brazil at age 5 or 6 (sources vary) on a B-2 visitor visa, which later transitioned to an F-1 student visa that has since lapsed.
On June 1st, hundreds, including graduates in caps and gowns, marched from Milford High School’s graduation to Town Hall, chanting “Free Marcelo.” On June 2nd, students staged a walkout, wearing white and holding signs in solidarity. A fundraiser has raised nearly $40,000 to cover legal and family expenses.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey called Gomes da Silva’s arrest “disturbing and outrageous,” demanding answers from ICE. U.S. Senator Ed Markey and Representative Jake Auchincloss also called for his release.
ICE maintains Gomes da Silva was subject to removal proceedings due to his undocumented status, despite not being the original target.
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