On June 19, 2018, Abbie Arevalo-Herrera made the decision to move into First Unitarian Universalist Church of Richmond with two of her children to fight her order of deportation. Deportation in Abbie’s case is equivalent to a death sentence. Abbie came to the United States seeking asylum due to a long history of domestic violence that would only have ended in her death at the hands of her abuser. “My daughters deserve to have a role model that demands respect and dignity,” she said in a conversation with her support team. On her journey to the US Abbie promised herself that she would never again be forced into a submissive role or permit anyone to abuse her.

In many ways Abbie’s story is similar to that of every other American’s; she came to this country in pursuit of a better life. Hands Off Abbie is a message to those who have perpetrated violence against women that it will not be tolerated. AG Jeff Sessions does not recognize the urgency to protect those fleeing violence, but as upholders of American values we cannot turn our back on those fleeing violence and persecution. Hands Off Abbie is also a message to the establishment that our community will defend against deportations that threaten the sanctity of life. By claiming sanctuary in a church as a last resort to protect herself and her children from bodily harm, Abbie reminds us of the barbarism of the current administration that will chase an immigrant literally to an alter. As a community we believe that every human being, regardless of their ethnic or national background, has inherent dignity that we are willing to fight for and preserve.

>Abbie will be posting regular updates, sending out calls to action, and asking for your support as she fights for her freedom. Join her mailing list and see how you can volunteer at: bit.ly/handsoffabbie