The Brief
- Maximo Londonio, known as “Kuya Max,” was released from the Northwest Detention Center after months of detention, including time in solitary confinement.
- Despite claims of support from the Philippine Consulate, detainees and advocacy groups report unmet promises, prompting calls for expedited financial and legal assistance.
TACOMA, Wash. – Members of the Tanggol Migrante Network (TMN) and the International Association of Machinists Local 695 gathered outside the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) on July 11 to celebrate the release of Maximo Londonio, known as “Kuya Max,” and to show solidarity with detainees facing challenging conditions at the facility.
Kuya Max expressed gratitude to the community and labor groups that advocated for his release since his detention on May 15. “Thank you for all your guys’ support, I really appreciate it,” he said to a cheering crowd, holding his wife Crystal’s hand. He specifically thanked Tanggol Migrante for their support.
The backstory:
Max’s release follows months of detention, including nearly a month in solitary confinement. The day before his hearing, Deputy Consulate General Maria Paz Cortes and Assistance to Nationals Officer Bernice Santayana visited the NWDC and met with ICE, though the details of their meeting were not disclosed.…