An Alabama woman who volunteers with an organization that advocates on behalf of Hispanic Alabamians has been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the state.
The Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama said in a statement Thursday that Giovanna Hernandez Martinez was taken into custody Tuesday after a traffic stop in Leeds. The release states that she has a business, Juntos Coaching and Consulting, that assists youth in the state.
“Giovanna is not only a trusted community partner, she is a role model,” said Carlos E. Alemán, the group’s CEO. “She brings purpose and heart to everything she does. Her contributions have touched families and young people throughout Alabama, and her detention is a painful loss for the entire community.”
The group said it has been working with Martinez and her family, speaking with state representatives and the authorities, to secure her release. The group is also requesting the community to send letters in support of Martinez and to make a financial contribution.
“We urge immigration authorities to consider her longstanding contributions and act with humanity and fairness,” the group said in the news release. “Giovanna’s voice is vital, and her presence is needed in the communities she so selflessly serves.”