Around 50 individuals gathered near Detroit Metro Airport on Saturday to protest against Avelo Airlines, which recently entered into an agreement with the federal government to carry out deportation flights. The demonstration took place at the intersection of Middlebelt and Wick roads and was organized by local advocacy groups, Western Wayne Indivisible and Indivisible: Downriver United 734. This event was part of a larger wave of protests occurring at various airports across the nation in response to similar agreements.
While it remains uncertain whether Avelo has already conducted deportation flights from Detroit Metro, many protesters voiced their dissatisfaction with the implications of such operations. Jessica Schering, co-founder of Downriver United 734, emphasized that the protest was fundamentally about the impact of the Trump administration’s policies, particularly concerning families being torn apart. She highlighted a distressing case in California concerning a critically ill 4-year-old girl whose medical care was jeopardized by the revocation of her residency by the administration, underscoring the urgency of addressing these policies.
In April, Avelo, a Houston-based budget airline, entered into a contract with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to use its aircraft for deportation flights. This decision has led to nationwide protests, online boycott petitions, and backlash from the union representing Avelo’s flight attendants, who raised concerns about emergency protocols during deportation scenarios.
A representative from Avelo stated that the airline was not at liberty to discuss specific contract details with DHS but assured that the safety and well-being of all involved remains their priority. The airline recognized the right to peaceful assembly but reiterated their commitment to maintaining operational safety.
Ashley Perry, a co-founder of the Indivisible chapter, noted a considerable growth in membership, which has now reached 875, indicating a rising concern among community members over issues related to deportation processes and government transparency regarding taxpayer expenditures.
Neither the DHS nor U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) provided comments when requested.
This protest reflects a growing unease regarding immigration policies and the implications they hold for families and communities. As public awareness increases, continued advocacy and discussion around the humanitarian aspects of deportation can hopefully lead to changes that prioritize family reunification and fair treatment.