Led by Tanggol Migrante Movement (TMM), the Filipino community in the US successfully stopped the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)’s deportation plan against Filipino immigrant “Tita Rebecca” on January 2.
The coordinated phone calls, emails, and testimonies about Tita Rebecca’s health forced United Airlines to cancel her flight from Chicago O’Hare International Airport. The company required her to undergo a medical examination before allowing her to travel.
Tita Rebecca, 71 years old, has lived in the US for four decades. ICE detained her after she “checked in” at the Department of Homeland Security in March. She suffered several months of inhumane conditions while confined at the ICE facility in Clay County, Indiana. The facility ignored and neglected her medical needs. She did not receive her maintenance medication for her liver and blood pressure for three months. The facility also prohibited her from leaving her cell or getting sunlight.
“One of our major concerns is her uncontrolled blood pressure. Tita Rebecca faces a high risk of venous thromboembolism (blood clotting) from prolonged immobility for such as a long flight. This could lead to lung failure or even sudden death. She also has Stage 4 liver disease,” TMM member Dr. Dominic Robolino explained.
On December 30, TMM launched a “National Unity Call” to demand the suspension of the deportation plan, as well as proper medical evaluation and treatment for Tita Rebecca. More than 300 people from different parts of the US participated in the online event. Unions members supporting migrant rights, healthcare workers, and Filipino community members joined the activity.
TMM has repeatedly organized actions, phone calls, and emails to the Philippine Consulate in Chicago to urge it to fulfill its duty to protect Tita Rebecca and provide her medical attention. However, as with other detained Filipinos, the consulate remained indifferent to her condition and illnesses.
According to TMM, the postponement of Tita Rebecca’s flight demonstrates the strength of the mass movement. The group continues to call for her comprehensive medical examination, proper medication, and release from detention.
