Hmong and Laotian Immigrants in Detroit Face Deportation Threats

News Summary

On July 30, 2025, a major operation by ICE in Detroit led to the detention of 16 Hmong and Laotian immigrants, sparking fears of imminent deportation. Many of those detained have deep ties to the local community and face potential repatriation to Laos, a country many have not known for decades. Advocates and lawmakers are raising concerns about the impact on families and the injustices surrounding deportation proceedings for individuals with previous criminal records, some of which have been expunged in Michigan.

Detroit, Michigan – Hmong and Laotian Immigrants Face Deportation Following ICE Detention

On July 30, 2025, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a major operation in Detroit, leading to the detention of 16 Hmong and Laotian immigrants. This event has raised concerns over the potential deportation of these individuals, many of whom have deep roots in the Michigan community. The detained individuals are facing deportation due to their criminal histories, which ICE officials have cited as eligibility criteria.

Fifteen of those detained were given notices to attend ICE appointments that they assumed were routine check-ins. However, upon arrival, they were instead taken to the North Lake Correctional Facility in Michigan and later transferred to facilities in Louisiana and Texas. The detainees included individuals with varying criminal records; some were previously charged with offenses such as gang involvement and sexual offenses. ICE has stated that these factors contribute to their vulnerability to deportation.

The impact of these arrests extends beyond the detainees themselves, affecting families and the local community. A coalition of 27 state legislators, along with a Detroit councilwoman, have expressed their opposition to the detentions and have requested the immediate release of those affected.

Community Concerns Over Detention and Deportation

The operation has drawn significant scrutiny from community advocates who fear the ramifications of deportation. Many of the detained individuals have established lives in Michigan, contributing positively to their communities. Reports indicate that the families of these detainees are particularly concerned about the risks they may face if repatriated to Laos—a country many have not been connected to for decades.

The situation resonates deeply with local leaders, highlighting the long-standing ties the Hmong and Laotian immigrants have with Michigan. According to the 2020 census, there are approximately 7,001 Hmong and 4,035 Laotian residents in the state, many of whom have faced challenges living under the shadow of potential deportation. Historical context reveals that following the Vietnam War, many Hmong were recruited by the CIA to fight against communist forces, leading to their eventual settlement in the U.S. after facing persecution in Laos.

Historical Context and Challenges of Repatriation

Following the fall of Saigon and the communist takeover in Laos, many Hmong faced severe consequences for their association with the U.S. military. While some were granted refugee status, their path has been riddled with obstacles, particularly in terms of repatriation. Laos has historically refused to accept deported individuals, complicating the situation further. Previous U.S. administrations, particularly under President Trump, attempted to influence Laos to accept deportees, significantly affecting the Hmong immigrant community.

The majority of the detained individuals have had removal orders dating back to 2001. Their backgrounds reveal a mix of past legal issues, with some individuals having records that include breaking and entering, drug possession, and firearms charges. Notably, many of these records have been expunged under Michigan law, raising ethical questions about the legitimacy of their continued deportation.

Personal Stories Amidst Deportation Threats

The detainees’ stories underline the human toll of these operations. For instance, Sufeng Yang, who arrived in the U.S. as a child, now serves as a key supporter for his family. His absence could lead to significant hardship for his elderly mother and other family members. Similarly, Lue Yang, who leads a nonprofit association servicing the Hmong community, faces deportation due to an old robbery conviction. Such cases underscore the personal and community-wide disruptions that would result from deportation actions.

Advocates and community leaders are urgently calling for awareness and legal advocacy to cease deportations targeting individuals who have made significant contributions and who played roles in aiding the U.S. during historical crises. The proceedings underline a crucial turning point for the Hmong and Laotian communities in Michigan as they confront the realities of an immigration system that they claim jeopardizes their lives and livelihoods.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Michigan Advance: Lawmakers Call for Release of Hmong Immigrants
• Detroit Free Press: Hmong and Laotian Refugees’ ICE Arrests
• Newsweek: Green Card Mom Detained by ICE for 47 Years
• Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Hmong American Woman Deported to Laos
• Detroit Free Press: Trump and Mass Deportation of Hmong
• Wikipedia: Hmong
• Google Search: Hmong immigrants Michigan
• Google Scholar: Hmong deportation ICE
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hmong
• Google News: Hmong immigrants deportation