Public Outcry Over ICE Detention in Nassau County
The daughter of a Long Island man detained by ICE confronted Nassau lawmakers during a meeting, voicing her frustrations over a county agreement with federal immigration authorities.
Chaos erupted on Tuesday when Fernanda, whose father works at a local bagel shop, appeared before the council alongside her grandfather. She was visibly upset, stating, “My name is Fernanda Meziah. My father was taken to ICE.” However, her attempt to speak was swiftly interrupted by Majority Leader Howard Kopel, who dismissed her remarks.
Fernanda was actually representing another woman who had planned to address the council. While Kopel suggested she complete a speaker card, the audience’s protests prompted him to allow Fernanda and her grandfather a chance to speak.
She recounted how her father was taken a month ago while he was at work, emphasizing that he was not the target, which made the incident even more distressing. “He’s my favorite person,” she said, sharing that he had been treated poorly since his detention. Fernanda described how he suffers from liver cirrhosis and has been denied medical treatment and basic hygiene.
As she spoke, some lawmakers appeared disengaged, which upset the crowd, leading them to shout at the officials to pay attention. Kopel responded to the angry audience by implying that their behavior was unproductive.
Despite her plea for the county to cease its partnership with ICE, many in attendance felt the GOP members remained indifferent. Kopel’s response to her heartfelt speech was, “Good luck. I hope it works. Okay, next.”
The county has consistently claimed that their collaboration with ICE is focused solely on serious criminals, reassuring the public that there is nothing to fear unless someone poses a genuine threat. Recently, County Executive Blakeman reiterated this stance, stating that ICE is only after those who have committed serious crimes.
However, Fernanda’s father, who has no criminal record, was taken into custody on June 12 while arriving for work at the bagel shop. He immigrated from El Salvador two decades ago but overstayed his visa and missed an immigration hearing in 2005, which led to an order for his removal.
The case has garnered significant public support, resulting in protests, rallies, and a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $30,000, along with letters from local representatives advocating for his release.
Last week, he received a temporary reprieve, with a court ruling that he cannot be deported for at least a month while his legal team prepares to contest his immigration status.
