AUSTIN, Texas - The Mexican American Legislative Caucus has welcomed the release of the Gámez-Cuéllar McAllen mariachi family. The group says the family’s detention by Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) was shameful.
State Rep. and MALC Chairman Ramon Romero, Jr., of Fort Worth:
“We are relieved that the Gámez-Cuéllar family is returning home. Families who follow the rules and show up to their ICE appointments in good faith should not be punished for doing exactly what the system asks of them.”
State Rep. and MALC Vice Chair Erin Gámez of Brownsville:
“This family did it the right way, entering the country through the proper legal channels and working hard to build a life in pursuit of the American dream. Policies that tear families apart rather than support those striving to contribute to our communities must come to an end.”
State Rep. Armando 'Mando' Martinez of Weslaco:
“The Rio Grande Valley is incredibly proud of these students and the culture they represent through their music. These students brought pride to our region and their family deserves fairness and dignity while their case moves forward.”
State Rep. R.D. 'Bobby' Guerra of McAllen:
“I am heartbroken and infuriated for the Gámez-Cuéllar family and our community. ICE's detainment of the Gámez-Cuéllar family sparks another fear in the lives of law-abiding immigrants and citizens alike. How can anyone feel safe if playing by the rules does not protect you?”
State Rep. Terry Canales of Edinburg:
“Antonio, Caleb and Joshua are bright, talented young men whose deep passion for mariachi music helps foster a sense of belonging and defines our shared identity as a community. They are not criminals. They are a family following the immigration process correctly.”
State Rep. Oscar Longoria of La Joya:
“This family checked in every time they showed up to every hearing. The Gámez-Cuéllar family deserves due process, not detention.”
State Rep. Sergio Muñoz of Mission:
“The detention of the Gámez-Cuéllar family highlights the ongoing need to improve border security. A balance must be found between effectively securing our border and allowing law abiding families to continue being part of our community and contributing to our economy.”
