TEMPE, AZ (AZFamily) — A vigil was hosted in Tempe on Wednesday to honor a friend who was recently detained by immigration enforcement, Catalina Xochitl Santiago. She was taken by immigration enforcement earlier this month.

“What we are doing is a demand of an immediate release of our friend; she shouldn’t even be there in the first place,” said Belen Sisa, a friend of Santiago.

Santiago was detained at an El Paso airport. Immigration authorities cited her criminal history, which included trespass and possession of narcotics, as the reason for her detainment.

Sisa feels there might be more to this since Santiago is an advocate for immigrant rights. “She’s an admirable community member and a powerful storyteller. She advocates for her community, especially elders, women and kids.”

This

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