Community Unites in Support of Detained Theater Manager

News Summary

Fernando Rocha, the theater manager at Juanita High School in Kirkland, has been detained by ICE, causing distress in the local community. The Lake Washington School District is assisting Rocha amidst concerns about his employment status and legal challenges. Community members are rallying to support him, emphasizing Rocha’s positive impact on the school’s performing arts program. As the bond hearing approaches, local lawmakers are committed to advocating for his rights and well-being during this difficult time.

Kirkland, Washington – Fernando Rocha, a theater manager at Juanita High School, has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), prompting significant distress within the local community. The Lake Washington School District has confirmed Rocha’s detention and is working to provide him with the necessary employment documentation to assist in his situation.

Community members are reacting with shock and concern towards Rocha’s detainment. He is widely regarded as an essential figure in the school’s performing arts program, known for his mentorship and positive impact on students. His detention has led to discussions among parents and local residents on ways to support him during this challenging period.

Rocha, a citizen of Brazil, initially entered the U.S. on a tourist visa in August 2018. After his visa expired, he applied for asylum in February 2019, establishing a “valid pending asylum claim” that was filed within the one-year deadline, according to his attorney. The attorney also noted that Rocha is wanted in Brazil for theft, characterizing the allegations as “outlandish” and currently under investigation.

A bond hearing for Rocha is set for July 29, and he is being held at the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma. The situation raises ongoing concerns about how his detention could affect immigration status verification and employment practices in Washington state schools. The Lake Washington School District conducts thorough background checks for its employees, although the verification of immigration status occurs separately from criminal history checks, as per state law.

Washington State Senator Manka Dhingra and U.S. Representative Suzan DelBene have both committed to protecting Rocha’s rights during this process and are closely monitoring developments. Senator Dhingra was first alerted to the situation by concerned parents and has since reached out to federal representatives for assistance.

The Lake Washington School District employs a diverse range of personnel, including both certificated staff members like teachers and counselors, as well as classified staff, which includes theater managers. The district follows stringent background check procedures mandated by state law to ensure the safety and well-being of its students.

The community’s emotional response to Rocha’s situation highlights his importance to the school’s theater program and the broader implications of immigration enforcement. Many community members are expressing their desire to rally around him, hoping to offer support as he navigates his legal challenges.

As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on Rocha’s urgent legal challenges and the profound impact this event has on the Kirkland community. The Lake Washington School District is maintaining communication with Rocha to assist during this difficult time while the community actively explores options for ensuring his well-being and support.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• Fox 13 Seattle
• Wikipedia: Immigration and Customs Enforcement
• Seattle Times
• Google Search: Juanita High School
• Lynnwood Times
• Google Scholar: Immigration Policy USA
• Fox 13 Seattle Video Report
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Immigration
• Newsweek
• Google News: Immigration ICE