From Love to Injustice: One Woman's Journey Through US Immigration Detention

Marie-Thérèse Ross, the elderly French widow of a US veteran, shares her harrowing experience in a US immigration detention facility. Arrested for an alleged visa overstay, she spent 16 days in custody. Her experience affected her view on US immigration policies and highlighted the harsh treatment of detainees.

Silence blanketed the Louisiana immigration detention facility by night, but it was soon disrupted by the sounds of crying children. Among those detained was Marie-Thérèse Ross, the 85-year-old French widow of a US military veteran. Her arrest as part of an immigration crackdown garnered global attention.

Ross, who overstayed her visa, was detained for 16 days. Her unexpected arrest in Alabama unfolded swiftly, leading to her transfer to a Louisiana facility where she faced strict conditions. Despite challenges, moments of kindness from fellow detainees helped her endure the ordeal.

Now back in France, Ross reflects on the experience that altered her perception of US immigration policies. The harsh treatment and separation of families she witnessed have profoundly affected her. While recovering, she continues to speak out about the women she left behind in detention.