John, Imagine missing 30 years of holidays with your family. What would change? Who would be at the holiday table; and who would be gone? For Robert, this is reality. Robert spent nearly 30 years in federal criminal custody for a nonviolent drug conviction. Finally, this past summer he received a compassionate release—for Robert, the moment was one of elation and freedom. Yet, the same day of his release, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took him into custody. During one of the worst pandemics in our history and with pre-existing medical conditions for respiratory issues, Robert was detained for nearly 10 months. “While I waited for my immigration court hearing, I was always afraid that I would contract COVID-19 due to the staff’s failure to adhere to COVID-19 procedures as recommended by the CDC,” Robert shared. “I hoped ICE would hold me for a bit and then let me go. I spent months in immigration detention. The biggest pain was for the people waiting for me—my daughter, son, and sisters.” But with the help of the National Immigrant Justice Center, Robert is spending the holidays surrounded by his loved ones. “Wow, how good it is to be free,” Robert said. “Now that I'm free and out here, I can be an advocate for the people who are voiceless, alongside NIJC.” Our team is working hard to bring justice and safety to people like Robert—and we are so grateful for compassionate supporters like you who make it possible. From the NIJC family to yours, we wish you and your loved ones a safe and happy holidays. Nayna Gupta
National Immigrant Justice Center P.S. Watch Robert tell his story during our virtual Policy Corner in October. | 
