Community Reacts to Theater Manager’s ICE Detention

Categories: National School News

Community members expressing support for the local theater program amidst the legal challenges faced by the theater manager.

News Summary

Fernando Rocha, a theater manager at Juanita High School in Kirkland, has been detained by ICE, sparking community outrage and concern. Parents and residents express support for Rocha, who played a significant role in the school’s performing arts program. Authorities are monitoring the situation, with Rocha’s bond hearing set for July 29. The incident raises questions about immigration policy within local schools and the implications for employment verification and worker rights.

Kirkland, Washington – Fernando Rocha, the theater manager at Juanita High School, has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), leading to significant community outrage and concern. The Lake Washington School District has confirmed Rocha’s detention, stating they are in contact with him to provide necessary employment documentation.

The community is expressing shock and distress at Rocha’s situation, as he is regarded as a crucial part of the school’s performing arts program. Parents and community members are actively discussing ways to support him during this challenging time. Senator Manka Dhingra and U.S. Representative Suzan DelBene are monitoring the situation and are committed to ensuring Rocha’s rights are protected.

Rocha is an asylum seeker who entered the U.S. on a tourist visa in August 2018 and applied for asylum in February 2019 before his visa expired. His attorney has emphasized that Rocha has a “valid pending asylum claim” that was filed within the one-year deadline. In addition, Rocha has reportedly been identified as a citizen of Brazil, where he faces allegations of theft. His attorney has labeled these allegations as “outlandish,” asserting they are under investigation.

Currently, Rocha is being held at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma, with a bond hearing scheduled for July 29. The Lake Washington School District follows strict protocols for employment verification, which includes thorough background checks for staff. This policy includes not only educators but also classified staff like theater managers. It has come to light that while the district conducts extensive checks for criminal histories, immigration status is typically verified separately.

This incident raises ongoing concerns regarding the implications of Rocha’s detention on immigration status verification and employment practices within Washington state schools. Senator Dhingra received initial reports of the detention from concerned parents, prompting her to reach out to federal representatives for assistance.

The community’s response has been one of support for Rocha, highlighting the positive influence he has had on students within the theater program. Parents and residents have expressed admiration for his mentorship efforts, reinforcing the perception that he is a beloved and integral part of the school’s cultural fabric.

Meanwhile, the Lake Washington School District is taking steps to navigate the complexities presented by Rocha’s detainment, affirming their commitment to adhere to both state and federal laws while considering the emotional and social impact of such actions on the community.

As the situation unfolds, the community remains vigilant, with residents dedicated to advocating for Rocha and ensuring that his rights are upheld during the legal process. This event has sparked a broader conversation about immigration policies and their implications in local schools, prompting discussions about best practices for verification and employee support.

As the bond hearing approaches, Rocha’s fate remains uncertain, but the outpouring of community support signals a deep commitment to his well-being and the values of inclusivity and support within the educational framework of Kirkland.