In brief
Steven Tendo, a Ugandan minister and asylum seeker in Vermont, was detained by ICE outside his workplace, leading to fears of imminent deportation. Having fled persecution and violence in Uganda, Tendo was well-integrated into the Vermont community. His legal team is actively pursuing options to secure his release as advocates rally for his support.
Steven Tendo, a Ugandan minister and nursing assistant who sought asylum in the U.S. in 2021, was detained by federal immigration agents outside a healthcare facility in Shelburne, Vermont. Advocacy groups like Migrant Justice and Tendo's union, UVMMC Support Staff United, reported that Tendo's detention could have grave consequences as his legal team fears a potential deportation.
Authorities confirmed Tendo was taken to an ICE facility in Manchester, New Hampshire, with his current location being the Strafford County Jail in Dover. Tendo had been living in Vermont under an asylum request that was ultimately denied, despite his claims of severe persecution back in Uganda, including torture at the hands of government forces.
Following news of his detention, there have been significant public and political responses, with local Vermont leaders vocalizing their dismay. U.S. Rep. Becca Balint, U.S. Senator Peter Welch, and Senator Bernie Sanders expressed shock at the situation and highlighted Tendo's role in the community.
Tendo's asylum application faced rejection in 2019 due to perceived inconsistencies, leading to ongoing legal struggles and check-ins with ICE. Tendo's attorneys have filed multiple appeals in hopes of reversing the decision against him. As advocates rally for his release, they emphasize the need for compassion and understanding, especially given his history of fleeing severe human rights abuses.
