Andry Hernandez Romero is a gay asylum seeker from Venezuela. He fled to the United States after years of homophobic violence, including being physically attacked by police officers simply for being himself. He came here hoping to be safe.
But instead of protection, Andry was wrongfully deported by the U.S. government. Not back to Venezuela, but to El Salvador, a country he had never lived in and where he had no ties. He had no criminal record. He was not given a proper hearing. Yet he was handed over to Salvadoran authorities and placed in Tecoluca mega-prison, a facility known for extreme overcrowding, violence, and human rights violations.
In prison, Andry was denied access to lawyers, held in solitary confinement, and subjected to conditions that LGBTQ+ people are especially vulnerable to: abuse, threats, and isolation. His case, documented by 60 Minutes and amplified by GLAAD, has shocked the conscience of many. But it is not an isolated incident.
Andry’s deportation is the result of a cruel and chaotic immigration system that is becoming increasingly hostile to LGBTQ+ immigrants. Since January, nearly 600 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced across 49 states. Executive Orders have targeted LGBTQ+ rights at every level. And now, asylum seekers like Andry are paying the price.
We at KAZA Law believe no one should be deported to a country where their life is in danger, especially those who came here seeking freedom. LGBTQ+ immigrants deserve dignity, safety, and a fair process. Andry’s case is a painful reminder of how easily the system can turn on the very people it should protect.
Take action now to demand justice for Andry. Sign the petition from the Human Rights Campaign:
https://act.hrc.org/page/169520/petition/1?locale=en-US
Watch the 60 Minutes investigation Read GLAAD’s coverage
My name is Daven Ghandi, and I’m a U.S. immigration lawyer and the founder of KAZA Law. In this article, I shared Andry’s story—a powerful reminder of how our immigration system continues to fail LGBTQ+ individuals who are fleeing danger and seeking safety. No one should be deported back to a country where their life is at risk simply for being who they are. If you or someone you care about is navigating an asylum or immigration case involving LGBTQ+ issues, please reach out. You can schedule a confidential consultation with me by clicking this link.
Kaza Law PLLC
This article is general education, not legal advice. Every case turns on its specific facts. If you want guidance on your own situation, reach out and we will look at it with you.