Whitmer Pardons Hmong Refugee Held by ICE, Aiding Nonprofit Efforts

Lue Yang, a Hmong immigrant detained by ICE for three months, received a pardon from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. This decision is pivotal in efforts to secure his release from custody.

Background of Lue Yang

Lue Yang arrived in the United States as a child refugee in the 1970s. He is a dedicated father of six and a respected figure in his community.

Yang faced legal issues as a minor. At 17, he pleaded guilty to breaking and entering, serving 10 months in jail. Remarkably, he turned his life around and became a leader by founding the Hmong Family Association of Lansing.

Governor Whitmer Issues Pardon

On Wednesday, Governor Whitmer announced the pardon of Lue Yang. She emphasized his contributions as a family man and a community leader. This pardon is a significant step toward rectifying his immigration situation.

Detention and Advocacy

• Yang has been held in an ICE facility in Louisiana since July.
• His family had no prior knowledge of his location during this period.
• State Representative Mai Xiong and Yang’s wife, Anne Vue, have actively campaigned for his release.

Conditions of Detention

Anne Vue described the harsh conditions her husband faced while detained. Yang was kept in an overcrowded staging center for much longer than the designated 72 hours. Vue reported that he endured living on a concrete floor for 12 days and was shackled throughout his detention.

She noted the detrimental effect of extended isolation. Yang’s mental and physical health deteriorated, with Vue stating he often cried during phone calls.

Legal Status and Next Steps

With his pardon, Lue Yang’s conviction is now set aside. His prior conviction had already been expunged in 2018 under Michigan’s Clean Slate laws.

The next challenge is to convince federal authorities to release him from ICE custody. Efforts are ongoing, and further communications with ICE are expected.

This case highlights ongoing advocacy for immigrant rights and the importance of community support in times of crisis. The hope is that Lue Yang will soon reunite with his family and contribute positively to society once again.