Catalina “Xochitl” Santiago, a dedicated immigration activist and DACA recipient, has been in immigration detention for over 50 days in El Paso, Texas. Despite her legal status in the United States, her situation has become a focal point in the ongoing debate surrounding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Santiago’s case highlights the alarming tactics employed by the Trump administration, which some experts believe could serve as a backdoor method to expel DACA recipients.
Santiago was detained on August 3 while attempting to board a flight to Austin. Nearly two months later, she remains confined in an immigration processing facility. Her brother, Jose, expressed concern about the toll this experience has taken on her mental and physical well-being. “She’s holding on,” he said, but the prolonged detention is undoubtedly challenging.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has cited a past arrest for narcotics and trespassing as justification for Santiago’s continued detention. However, her attorneys have pointed out that she was never prosecuted for these charges due to a lack of sufficient evidence. This raises questions about the legitimacy of her detention and the broader implications for DACA recipients.
A federal judge recently extended a restraining order preventing the Trump administration from deporting Santiago, but did not rule on her release. Another judge had previously terminated the immigration proceedings against her, affirming her lawful status under DACA. Despite this, the administration has maintained that it can detain her indefinitely, a stance that has drawn criticism from immigration advocates. Bridget Pranzatelli, an attorney with the National Immigration Project, emphasized the potential consequences of this case, stating that if Santiago remains in custody when her DACA status comes up for renewal in 2026, she could lose her protections without due process.
The implications of Santiago’s detention extend beyond her individual case. Experts warn that the administration’s approach could set a precedent for targeting other DACA recipients. Diana Pliego, a senior strategist at the National Immigration Law Center, noted that the administration appears to be attempting to dismantle DACA quietly, avoiding the public backlash that accompanied previous attempts to end the program.
Recent data supports these concerns. A tracker launched by a coalition of immigration organizations revealed that nearly 20 DACA recipients have been detained in the past year alone. Juliana Macedo do Nascimento, deputy director of federal policy for United We Dream, highlighted specific cases where ICE has targeted DACA recipients, indicating a shift in enforcement priorities that contradicts earlier commitments to de-prioritize such actions.
Santiago’s friends and family have rallied around her, organizing events and campaigns to advocate for her release. Christine Miranda, a close friend, described the conditions of detention as dehumanizing and emphasized Santiago’s commitment to her community. “She is truly a lifelong community organizer,” Miranda said, reflecting on Santiago’s dedication to fighting for immigrant rights.
Santiago’s journey began when she arrived in the United States from Oaxaca, Mexico, at the age of eight. Her brother expressed the devastating impact that deportation would have on their family, noting that they have little connection to Mexico and would face significant challenges if forced to return.
The broader implications of Santiago’s case resonate with lawmakers as well. Representative Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.) condemned the administration’s actions, asserting that the government should not be allowed to silence dissenting voices. “We have to stand up for Dreamers and immigrants and protect our civil and constitutional rights,” she stated.
As the legal battle continues, a ruling on Santiago’s release is anticipated soon. Her case serves as a critical reminder of the precarious position many DACA recipients find themselves in and the ongoing struggle for immigrant rights in the United States.