Andry Hernández Romero. Photo: Facebook
Fifty-two House Democrats are demanding answers and urgent action regarding the fate of Andry Hernández Romero, a gay asylum-seeker who was deported to a high-security prison in El Salvador.
Led by California U.S. Rep. Robert Garcia, who is gay, the bipartisan coalition sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, pushing for intervention in Romero’s case.
Romero, a hairdresser with no criminal record, was sent to a “mega-prison” as part of a U.S. government initiative targeting alleged Venezuelan gang members. This deportation occurred despite Romero having passed an initial asylum interview, a step that typically allows asylum seekers to proceed with their case in the U.S.
Congressional Outcry and Demand for Wellness Check
In their letter, dated June 9, the members of Congress pressed the State Department to “conduct a wellness check on Mr. Hernández Romero, facilitate his access to legal counsel and immediately facilitate his release.”
They specifically highlighted Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s refusal to confirm whether Romero is still alive, raising serious concerns about his well-being and due process.
The lawmakers’ letter underscored the gravity of the situation, stating, “No mother should have to worry that their child will be forcibly disappeared from the United States without due process or whether their son is even alive and healthy because of the actions of the United States government.”
A Betrayal of Values and a Call for Awareness
Speaking to The Advocate, Rep. Garcia expressed his regret that Romero’s story isn’t getting more attention, especially during Pride Month. “Pride month is an opportunity to highlight his story even more,” Garcia said, believing that increased public awareness would “put pressure on the administration and homeland security to do the right thing.”
Garcia drew a parallel between Romero’s situation and that of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland man the administration admitted to sending to El Salvador by mistake. He emphasized the unique cruelty of Romero’s case: “Andry’s case is unique. Being gay is the reason he left his country. We have a process in the United States… And yet we betrayed him – and our values at the same time.”
Widespread Support Across the Political Spectrum
Romero’s plight has garnered significant attention beyond Capitol Hill. Last month, rallies were held across California, where LGBTQ+ leaders called for his immediate return to the U.S. to seek asylum. Notably, even controversial right-wing podcaster Joe Rogan has publicly come to Romero’s defense, highlighting the broad appeal for justice in this case.
