Iranian mother released from ICE detention amid community backing

In early June 2025, Mandonna Kashanian, a 64-year-old Iranian mother, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while gardening in her yard in New Orleans, Louisiana. Having lived in the United States for 47 years, Kashanian originally arrived in the country on a student visa in 1978. Although she had applied for asylum based on her father's support of the U.S.-backed shah, her application was denied. In 1992, a deportation order was upheld, but she was allowed to stay in the U.S. as long as she complied with check-ins with immigration authorities, which she did. Recent events surrounding her detention garnered public support, with over 100 neighbors writing letters advocating for her case. Community groups, along with representatives such as Steve Scalise, Louisiana's First Congressional District congressman, voiced their concerns regarding her treatment by immigration authorities. They highlighted Kashanian's contributions to the community, including her volunteer work with organizations like Habitat for Humanity and her dedication to her family as a mother and wife. Scalise and others actively communicated with the Department of Homeland Security in an attempt to secure her release, emphasizing that she should be evaluated based on her positive impact and contributions to society. Ultimately, due to the public outcry and legal representation from attorney Ken Mayeaux, she was released from ICE detention after a couple of weeks. Her family, including her U.S. citizen husband and daughter, expressed immense gratitude for the community support that led to her release. However, the future of Kashanian's legal status remains uncertain as her attorney continues to navigate the complexities of her immigration status, which is still officially illegal according to ICE. The case highlights broader issues concerning immigration policy and the human stories behind legal battles. The community's response underscores the ongoing discussions about immigration enforcement practices and the treatment of long-term residents who contribute positively to society. Scalise's remarks on Kashanian's case indicate a growing concern among local constituents about the potential for immigration actions to disrupt the lives of families and the community. Despite her release, Kashanian's struggle with her immigration status and any future attempts for legal residency or asylum proceedings remain unresolved, reflecting the complexities of the immigration system in the United States.