Wendy Vega Lores, an aspiring pediatrician from Cuba, found herself detained on June 16—the day she turned 19—after attending an immigration court hearing in San Antonio, Texas. Despite having adhered to all legal requirements and possessing a spotless record, Wendy was taken into custody upon leaving the courthouse, with her asylum request still pending for over two years.
Currently, Wendy is held at the Karnes detention center for migrant women as she awaits a bond hearing scheduled for late July. "I've done nothing against society," Wendy expressed in an interview with Univision. "I was supposed to complete these four years, engaging in volunteer work, achieving excellent grades, and putting in double the effort to eventually apply to medical school," she elaborated.
Wendy, who arrived in the United States with her family, has consistently demonstrated exemplary conduct. She completed high school in just two years, maintains a clean legal record—with not even a traffic ticket—and had planned to embark on an intensive summer preparation to strengthen her candidacy for U.S. medical schools.
The detention center environment has taken a toll on Wendy, leading to panic attacks, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. She particularly misses her 9-year-old brother. "There are people here, both older and younger than me, who are crying because they say they have done nothing wrong. It's heartbreaking to witness our predicament," she shared.
As Wendy remains in detention, there is a growing concern that her release on bond might be denied. Her legal team argues that detaining her is not only unnecessary but also jeopardizes the promising academic future of a young woman who, instead of posing any risk, embodies dedication, commitment, and the aspiration to contribute positively to American society.
Understanding the Challenges Faced by Asylum Seekers in the U.S.
Why was Wendy Vega Lores detained after her immigration court hearing?
Wendy Vega Lores was detained despite complying with immigration procedures and having no criminal record. Her asylum request has been pending for over two years, and she was taken into custody after leaving the courthouse on her birthday.
What impact has detention had on Wendy's mental health?
Wendy has experienced panic attacks, anxiety, and difficulties sleeping since being detained. The stress of the situation and separation from her family, especially her younger brother, have significantly affected her wellbeing.
What are Wendy's aspirations regarding her education and career?
Wendy dreams of becoming a pediatrician. She completed high school swiftly and planned to start rigorous preparation this summer to enhance her application for medical schools in the United States.