A teacher's aide in the Milwaukee Public Schools system ordered by immigration authorities to self-deport to El Salvador will not have to leave the United States tonight, her attorney said Tuesday morning.
Yessenia Ruano had been making arrangements to fly back to El Salvador tonight with her two daughters but can remain in the United States while awaiting ICE's decision on an appeal.
Previous coverage: Milwaukee teacher's aide given four days to leave country:
Ruano's attorney, Marc Christopher, confirmed that ICE accepted the appeal earlier today, providing her with more time in the U.S.
There is no specific timeline for when ICE will make a ruling on her appeal.
Attorney Marc Christopher assures that Ruano will comply with whatever decision is made regarding her status.
“Ms. Ruano is overwhelmed with gratitude for the compassion and support so many have shown,” her legal team said. “She has survived unimaginable trauma and still found the strength to give so much to her community, especially to the many area students whose lives she’s touched. All we ask is that she be allowed to stay—at least until her T Visa is decided—so she is not sent back into the very danger she fled."
Ruano entered the U.S. 14 years ago through the U.S.-Mexico border.
Shortly after, border agents deported her. When she tried to enter again, Ruano told agents she was fleeing from violence in her home country and feared for her safety, attempting to seek asylum.
"It is important to note that filing a stay of removal does not prevent ICE from carrying out a deportation order while the request is under review, and no specific timeframe is guaranteed for a decision," a statement on behalf of Ruano says.
According to records, Ruano also has no criminal history.
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