Who is Martina Grifaldo and Why is She Relevant?
Martina Grifaldo, a 62-year-old Mexican woman with U.S. citizenship, has taken it upon herself to warn the Latino community in Houston about ICE raids. Alongside Francisco Mendoza, a 57-year-old Mexican man, and other volunteers, she receives reports of potential raids from the community and publishes them on her Facebook page, which boasts 171,000 followers.
Understanding the “Ice” in ICE Raids
The term “ice” has become a reference for Latino migrants, as it translates to “ICE” in English—the Service of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. This federal agency conducts raids targeting undocumented immigrants, including those seeking asylum or those with Latino features, even if they hold U.S. citizenship or residency permits.
How Martina and Her Team Operate
Martina and her team monitor specific areas in Houston, known as “la migra” hotspots, where ICE agents typically operate. They share real-time updates on their Facebook page, accompanied by photos and videos sent by users. The activists believe these agents may be “bounty hunters,” though the migratory authorities deny using such methods.
The Impact on the Community
Martina and Francisco emphasize that undocumented immigrants, despite facing deportation risks, still contribute to the U.S. economy by paying taxes that fund various federal programs. They stress that these individuals do not receive any benefits in return.
- Question: Answer: Martina Grifaldo is a 62-year-old Mexican woman with U.S. citizenship, while Francisco Mendoza is a 57-year-old Mexican man. Together, they warn the Latino community in Houston about ICE raids through a Facebook page with 171,000 followers.
- Question: Answer: “Ice” is a Spanish translation of “ICE,” which stands for the Service of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the federal agency responsible for conducting raids targeting undocumented immigrants.
- Question: Answer: Martina and her team receive reports from the community about possible raids, which they then publish on their Facebook page along with real-time updates, photos, and videos.
- Question: Answer: Martina and Francisco stress that undocumented immigrants pay taxes that fund various federal programs, highlighting their economic contributions despite facing deportation risks.
