Lue Yang, a Hmong immigrant and community leader, is finally on the path to freedom after Governor Gretchen Whitmer granted him a pardon. Yang, who has been in ICE custody for three months, has faced significant challenges during this time.
Who is Lue Yang?
Lue Yang is a father of six and a respected member of Michigan’s Hmong community. He entered the United States in the 1970s as a child refugee. Over the years, Yang has made substantial contributions to his community through initiatives like the Hmong Family Association of Lansing.
Legal Background
As a teenager, Yang encountered legal issues related to breaking and entering. He served 10 months in jail after pleading guilty at 17. Since then, he has turned his life around and engaged positively with the community.
Governor Whitmer’s Pardon
On a recent Wednesday, Governor Whitmer announced the pardon for Yang. She emphasized his role as a dedicated family man and community leader. His pardon allows him to move forward without the burden of his past conviction.
The Fight for Yang’s Release
Yang’s wife, Anne Vue, and State Representative Mai Xiong have campaigned tirelessly for his release. Vue expressed her concerns about the treatment Yang received in ICE custody, stating that his well-being has deteriorated during his time detention.
- Yang has been held in a facility in Louisiana.
- He and others were reportedly shackled and slept on concrete floors.
- His family was initially unaware of his whereabouts.
Impact of Detention Conditions
The conditions in which Yang was held have raised alarms. Vue described the isolation and lack of basic comforts that have had a severe impact on his mental and physical health. She noted that he experienced extreme distress, especially during their phone conversations.
Next Steps
With the pardon granted, efforts now focus on persuading federal authorities to release Yang. His case is not just a personal struggle but highlights broader issues surrounding legal and immigration reform.
As the community rallies behind him, Yang’s story sheds light on the challenges faced by immigrants within the U.S. legal system. The hope remains that federal agencies will respond promptly to calls for his release, allowing Yang to return home to his family.
