A Filipino photojournalist and DACA recipient who has lived in the United States for over 20 years has been detained by ICE for more than 200 days over social media posts the government claims amount to terrorism.
Yaakub Vijandre’s DACA status was revoked by the Department of Homeland Security over social media activity, including liking posts.
His cousin, Krystle Canare, spoke exclusively to The News Movement about his case.
“All of it is both unconstitutional and alarming for all of us,” she said. “They were revoking his DACA status because, according to them, he was glorifying and espousing terrorism on social media. But when you look at his page, he’s really highlighting various social justice issues.”
Yaakub works as a senior safety specialist for American Airlines, ensuring planes are safe to fly.
In response to The News Movement’s inquiry, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said, “When you break our laws and advocate for violence and terrorism, you should not be in this country.”
Yaakub’s attorneys say his speech is protected under the First Amendment. He has not been charged with or accused of any crimes.