The Dream Action Coalition denounces the Obama adminstration, and in particular, Secretary Napolitano for making statements in which she is defending the detainment of the mother of prominent immigration activist Erika Andiola. Napolitano told Phoenix NBC affiliate KPNX that Maria Arreola was a priority case because of a previous deportation and traffic ticket.  This all cuts directly against the priorities outlines by the ICE.gov website.

Erika’s mother detainment happened quickly enough that, by the time everyone in the immigrant rights movement found out what was happening, Erika Andiola’s mother and brother was already on her way to Mexico. Fortunately, the community, DREAM and immigrant rights movement responded with efficiency and strength.