In brief
Diana Santillana Galeano, a day care employee in Chicago, has been released from detention after being arrested by immigration agents during a child's drop-off. Her case has drawn attention to the aggressive enforcement tactics used under the current administration, particularly at sensitive locations like day care centers. Her attorney expressed gratitude for community support while she awaits the outcome of her immigration claims.
CHICAGO — A Chicago day care employee, Diana Santillana Galeano, detained by immigration agents last week, was released from a detention center in Indiana according to her attorney. Galeano was arrested on November 5 while children were being dropped off at the Rayito de Sol Spanish Immersion Early Learning Center.
A disturbing video captured the moment agents struggled with Galeano as they escorted her from the day care. Following public outcries and community support, her attorney announced her release on Wednesday. 'We are thrilled that Ms. Santillana was released, and has been able to return home to Chicago where she belongs,' stated her attorney, Charlie Wysong. 'We will continue to pursue her immigration claims to stay in the United States.'
Galeano expressed her gratitude in a statement, saying, 'I am so grateful to everyone who has advocated on my behalf, and on behalf of the countless others who have experienced similar trauma over recent months in the Chicago area. I love our community and the children I teach, and I can’t wait to see them again.'
This incident sheds light on the heightened immigration enforcement strategies under the current administration. Authorities have launched numerous operations, referred to as 'Operation Midway Blitz,' resulting in thousands of arrests across Chicago since early September. Galeano’s detention at a day care center has drawn particular scrutiny, revealing the extent of aggressive tactics utilized by immigration agents.
The Department of Homeland Security reported that Galeano entered the U.S. illegally in June 2023, but she had obtained authorization to work under the Biden administration. The agency denied that the day care was specifically targeted during this operation.
