U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has detained a Southwest Airlines flight attendant, Lorenzo Thompson, who was arrested on July 14 upon returning from a work flight at Nashville International Airport. Supporters are mobilizing to raise awareness about his situation.
Thompson, a Jamaican national, is currently in ICE custody, with his labor union and advocates demanding transparency and due process in his legal case. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Thompson entered the United States on a visa that expired in October 2021, which he allegedly overstayed.
After completing a scheduled work route, Thompson was detained at his home airport. He is expected to remain in custody while his immigration proceedings unfold. Details surrounding his detention, including the location of his custody and the anticipated duration of his legal process, remain unclear.
The Dallas-based TWU Local 556, representing over 21,000 flight attendants, issued a statement emphasizing that every member deserves respect and support. The union has committed to providing legal counsel to Thompson and ensuring he and his family feel supported during this challenging time.
Labor organizations, including the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA), are collaborating with Thompson’s attorney and family. LCLAA has publicly stated that Thompson has no criminal record and has been diligently pursuing his path to citizenship.
Edward Marq, a flight attendant and union leader, expressed the necessity for transparency and fairness as they navigate the legal channels. “Our role is to support one of our union brothers while respecting the legal process,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of visibility in Thompson’s case.
TWU Local 556 plans to keep a close watch on the developments regarding Thompson’s immigration proceedings, with hopes for a prompt resolution. In the meantime, friends and fellow flight attendants have initiated a public GoFundMe campaign to help cover Thompson’s legal expenses while he remains in custody.
