When a Whole Community Fights Back We Win!

He’s home!

After 5 months in detention, Hardat Sampat is back with his family, and came by the DRUM office yesterday

People Power got him out! ✊
And in particular, his wife Savita and his sister Sherry (both of whom are DRUM members) got him out!

On May 30, 2017, Queens resident and DRUM member’s spouse Hardat Sampat was on his way to court to clear his name after being accused of a crime, But as he left his house, his family’s car was suddenly surrounded by ICE agents. They drove unmarked vehicles, did not identify themselves, and refused to show a warrant for Hardat’s arrest. With his terrified family members looking on, Hardat was suddenly pulled out of the car and taken away with no explanation.

At DRUM, our organizers have documented increased ICE activity in Southern Queens post-election, and we’ve been working to support community members in defending themselves. Hardat’s own family and friends showed immense courage when they tried to stand in front of the ICE cars and block their path. They showed us what it means when a whole community fights back.