Uyghur Father Detained by ICE, Family Struggles to Cover Daily Expenses

New York, January 30, 2026 — A Uyghur father of five has been held by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for more than two months, leaving his family in financial crisis as they struggle to cover day‑to‑day living costs.

Ismail, a legally residing immigrant who has lived in the United States with his wife and children for over ten years, supported his family by working as a long‑haul truck driver until his employment ended because his pending green card application prevented him from renewing necessary work authorization. Four of his five children were born in the U.S.

Despite a spotless legal history, Ismail was recently taken into ICE custody. In a recent hearing, immigration authorities and the court acknowledged that he has no criminal record and could be released. Advocates for Ismail warn, however, that ongoing procedural delays could keep him detained for several more months.

Since his detention, the family’s primary source of income has stopped. His wife now bears the full responsibility of caring for their children and covering rent, food, utilities, transportation and other basic expenses on her own. Although her parents have stepped in to offer help where they can, the sudden and substantial financial burden has overwhelmed the household.

In response to the family’s urgent need, the Uyghur Islamic Center has launched a fundraising effort to assist Ismail’s wife and children. The Center emphasized that many Uyghur families across the United States are enduring deep economic and emotional hardship, and described Ismail’s case as a stark example of the human cost of immigration detention.

“Uyghur families in the United States are facing significant economic and emotional hardships,” the Uyghur Islamic Center said in a statement. “This family has been law‑abiding and hardworking, yet Ismail’s detention has placed them in severe financial distress. Even small contributions can make a meaningful difference in helping the family overcome this crisis.”

Supporters are calling on the wider community to stand with Ismail’s family as they navigate both legal challenges and the struggle to keep their household afloat in his absence.