Story perspectives

Marijuana Conviction Sparks Deportation Threat Amid ICE Struggles

8/8/2025

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Zavvar's Deportation Threat

Reza Zavvar, a 52-year-old Maryland resident, is facing the looming threat of deportation to Australia or Romania, countries he has no connection to, due to a past marijuana conviction. In contrast, South Korean student Yeonsoo Go found freedom from ICE detention thanks to community backing, underscoring the ongoing struggles within the immigration system during the Trump era.

Center

Toledo's Deportation Risk

Starting August 1, U.S. immigrants pursuing legal residency will face heightened deportation threats, even if married to citizens. The new policy permits deportation for denied applications, as seen in Christina Toledo's case, where her husband was detained despite a legal application. Immigration attorneys fear this could discourage others from applying.

History

Historical Context

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 marked a pivotal shift in U.S. immigration policy by abolishing national origin quotas that had favored European immigrants since 1924. This change led to increased immigration from Asia and Latin America, significantly altering the demographic landscape. Recent policy shifts threaten legal residency for many immigrants, echoing historical struggles against systemic barriers and raising concerns about the future of immigrant rights in the U.S.

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Zavvar's Deportation Threat

Reza Zavvar, a 52-year-old Maryland resident, is facing the looming threat of deportation to Australia or Romania, countries he has no connection to, due to a past marijuana conviction. In contrast, South Korean student Yeonsoo Go found freedom from ICE detention thanks to community backing, underscoring the ongoing struggles within the immigration system during the Trump era.

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