Sister Leticia Ugboaja, a Roman Catholic nun and registered nurse, was released from US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody on Monday after being detained while walking to church in South Texas. The incident has sparked international concern and prompted intervention by members of the US Congress.
The arrest, which occurred just miles from the US-Mexico border, has shone a light on the challenges faced by faith communities along the southern border, where immigration enforcement efforts have been stepped up under the current administration. Sister Ugboaja's detention while dressed in her habit and heading to Our Lady of Sorrows church in McAllen, Texas, sparked widespread concern among church officials and local residents.
US House member Monica de la Cruz, a Republican representing South Texas, was among those who intervened on Sister Ugboaja's behalf, along with other congressional representatives from the region. Their efforts proved instrumental in securing her release after engaging with federal officials, including the Department of Homeland Security. Confirmation of her release came from Brenda Riojas, a spokesperson for the Catholic Diocese of Brownsville, Texas.
Sister Ugboaja is not only an extraordinary minister of holy communion at Our Lady of Sorrows but also works as a nurse in South Texas Health System. Prior to this role, she spent a decade working as a certified nursing assistant at DHR Health in Edinburg, Texas. Her dedication to the local community has been evident throughout her career.
The incident is just one example of the tensions surrounding immigration policies and their impact on communities living near the US border. Faith leaders are now grappling with how to support congregants who may be fearful of attending services in person, with some encouraging online participation or offering assistance with errands.