Boudylam “Lam” Simmavanh, a 48-year-old welder and father of four, has lived in the United States for 40 years after fleeing Laos as a child refugee. His life took a precarious turn when he was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on October 28, facing deportation back to Laos, a country he left as a young child.
Community Support for Simmavanh
Since February, the Simmavanh family has been gathering letters from friends, family, and community members. These letters highlight Simmavanh’s character, depicting him as a dedicated family man who has positively contributed to the small town of Orrville, Ohio.
- David Handwerk, former mayor of Orrville, emphasized that tearing families apart affects the entire community.
- Korbin Sprowls, Simmavanh’s son-in-law, praised him as a role model.
- Rachel Wallace, a friend, expressed that losing Lam would devastate his family and community.
Detainment and Legal Challenges
Simmavanh’s detainment comes after nearly two decades of regular check-ins with ICE. His case highlights concerns about how deportation policies can impact law-abiding residents. Following his detention, his wife, Audra Simmavanh, expressed the emotional toll it has taken on their family and community.
On a national scale, the Trump administration’s immigration policies have ramped up deportations. As of September 25, over 59,000 immigrants were in ICE custody, with 28.7% having criminal convictions.
The Impact on Family and Community
Audra Simmavanh, a U.S. citizen, described the community’s reaction as overwhelmingly supportive. She indicated that her husband’s detainment signifies how good, contributing individuals can be caught in the crosshairs of strict immigration enforcement.
Details surrounding Simmavanh’s past include prior charges from a disputed domestic incident, where he received subpar legal representation. He has maintained that he is not a threat to his family or community.
Hope Amid Difficulties
Recently, the family received hope when Audra’s petition to sponsor her husband for a green card was approved. Local advocate Jenny Fischer emphasized the challenges faced by families navigating the immigration system. The financial burden of legal fees and paperwork can be overwhelming.
While community members have started raising funds to support the Simmavanh family during this crisis, Audra worries about their future. She has applied for Medicaid and faces potential hardships, including selling their home.
Conclusion
The story of Boudylam Simmavanh resonates deeply within the Orrville community. Many are advocating for his release, calling state officials to address the situation. As this family battles against deportation, they represent the struggles faced by many immigrants in the U.S.
