Elvira Arellano, Deported Immigration Activist, Released On Parole After Border Protest

Elvira Arellano, a 39-year-old Mexican immigration activist who gained international renown in 2006 by seeking refuge in a Chicago church for over a year from authorities who sought to deport her, has been released on parole into the United States after taking part in a protest at a port of entry near the San Diego border with Mexico. Arellano was one of some 150 one-time undocumented immigrants, including many young people who grew up in the US, who tried to cross in a series of three protests in past weeks and who went on to ask either for asylum or visas on humanitarian grounds.

"I am asking that they let me in the United States legally on humanitarian grounds, because I am a defender of human rights in Mexico and I've received kidnapping and violence threats," Arellano said before attempting the crossing, according to the Associated Press. "But more importantly, because they have separated my son from his chance to have a good upbringing."

Arellano, who in 2006 was named Time Person of the Year, told a local KPBS affiliate that she had been especially nervous going into the protest. “I was scared they would send me to federal prison because I have a previous deportation. But thanks to the community, the organizations, the people who worked so hard, and thanks to God, I'm here and I'm free.” The site notes that she and her 5-month-old son were greeted by her 15-year-old son Saul, who is a US citizen, in San Diego after she was released on parole by immigration authorities.