Rally at Tacoma ICE center calls for release of Filipino father

Dozens gathered outside the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma on Friday to demand the release of Maximo "Kuya Max" Londonio, a labor union leader and green card holder. Londonio was detained by Customs and Border Protection upon his return from the Philippines, where he honored his late mother and celebrated his wedding anniversary. His wife, Crystal Londonio, addressed the crowd, emphasizing his role as a dedicated father and husband, and claimed he poses no threat to the community. Advocates highlighted the systemic issues within immigration detention, noting that the Tacoma facility is currently over capacity, holding more than 1,600 detainees, and conditions are deteriorating. Crystal has found support in Tanggol Migrante, a migrant advocacy network, and is working with them to raise awareness about the effects of immigration detention on families.

During the rally, protesters chanted for immediate action, stating that Londonio’s case is representative of broader systemic failures. "Max has taken accountability for his actions," Crystal said, arguing that he has been abandoned by both governments. This rally underscores the growing demand for reform in immigration policies and practices across the U. S.