Deportation of innocent Venezuelan artist sparks outrage

In late March 2025, a group of Venezuelan migrants, including Andry Hernandez Romero, were deported from the United States to El Salvador, landing them in the notorious Terrorism Confinement Center, also known as CECOT. Many of these deportees, including Romero, had no criminal records, prompting concerns about the Trump administration's treatment of individuals who fled their home country in search of safety. Romero, a 31-year-old gay makeup artist, expressed fears upon his arrival, especially given the reputation of CECOT for harsh conditions and severe treatment of inmates. Throughout his time in Venezuela, Romero faced discrimination due to his sexual orientation and was involved in artistic pursuits related to his hometown's annual festival. However, U.S. authorities misconstrued his tattoo—symbolic of the festival—as a gang affiliation, specifically linking him to Tren de Aragua, a well-known Venezuelan gang. This mischaracterization contributed to his deportation and incarceration in El Salvador. Romero's case gained attention from media outlets and human rights organizations. His family reported losing contact with him after he was moved to the CECOT prison. Legal advocates, concerned about the baseless accusations, sought to contest the deportation and address the ongoing issues faced by Romero and other deportees. The deportation has been labeled as unprecedented due to the lack of evidence for the claimed gang affiliations. The situation reflects broader criticisms of U.S. immigration policies and the implications they have on individuals fleeing violence and persecution. Advocates continue to demand greater accountability and humane treatment for those caught in the immigration system. Romero's story serves as a chilling illustration of the potential dangers faced by vulnerable individuals being returned to volatile environments.