The Struggle of a British R&B Singer in US Immigration Detention
A British R&B singer, Jane Eugene, who is currently being held in a U.S. correctional facility, is facing severe health challenges due to the conditions of her detention. Her loved ones have expressed deep concern over her rapidly deteriorating health, highlighting the toll that her prolonged stay in custody has taken on her well-being.
Jane Eugene, known as the lead singer of the 1980s R&B group Loose Ends, was detained by immigration authorities at the Canadian border crossing in Niagara Falls two months ago. She is now being held at a correctional facility in Kentucky. Friends and family have shared details about the impact of her detention, emphasizing the need for support during this difficult time.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist Jane with the costs associated with her legal battle and basic needs while she remains in custody. The fundraiser aims to cover initial legal fees, ensure her health is protected during detention, pay for a possible bond, and help with other essential expenses. The campaign highlights that Jane's music has touched many lives, and now it is time for fans and friends to step in and be her lifeline.
The statement from the GoFundMe page reads: "She loves America, has made her home here, and wants to fight using every legal remedy available." It further encourages contributions, stating that every dollar will go directly to Jane. The campaign emphasizes the uncertainty of her situation, as the courts are overwhelmed, and the duration of her detention under challenging conditions is unclear.
In a statement released on her behalf, Jane thanked her supporters for their love and prayers. She mentioned that her friends have been doing an incredible job supporting her, but the financial burden is becoming too much. She also noted that her health has suffered significantly during her time in detention.
Jane has been leading a U.S.-based version of Loose Ends, performing across the country from her home in Los Angeles. According to U.S. government sources, she applied for a green card in 1999, when she had already overstayed her visa. This application was denied, and now her alleged visa overstay could lead to serious legal consequences, including removal proceedings and a potential 10-year re-entry ban.
An official from the Department of Homeland Security emphasized that the law applies equally to everyone, regardless of status. She stated that Jane was denied an immigrant petition for alien workers in 1999 and had already overstayed her visa at the time of application. The official added that the United States is offering illegal aliens $1,000 and a free flight to self-deport, encouraging them to take advantage of this opportunity to return legally.
Under Section 245(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, there is a provision that allows people who entered the country and applied for a green card before 2001 to re-apply for legal status while still in the U.S., even if they overstayed their visa. Jane meets the requirements for this provision and is considered "grandfathered" in.
Her case comes amid a broader focus on immigration enforcement under the Trump administration. Thousands of immigrants have been arrested, detained, and deported in recent years. Loose Ends' most famous hit, "Hangin' on a String (Contemplating)," topped the U.S. Billboard R&B chart in 1985, making them the first British band to achieve this feat.
The group, originally named Loose End, later changed its name to Loose Ends and signed with Virgin Records. They split up and reunited for a single by hip-hop producer Pete Rock in 1998. Jane has continued to perform with a new version of the group, promoting upcoming gigs and sharing insights on the music industry.
She has also faced legal challenges, including a trademark infringement lawsuit filed by a former band member. Despite these difficulties, she continues to advocate for artists to create their own music and build a sustainable career.
As the U.S. immigration system continues to tighten, cases like Jane's highlight the complexities and challenges faced by individuals caught in the web of immigration laws. Her story serves as a reminder of the human impact behind the policies and the importance of compassion and support in times of crisis.
Posting Komentar