A Solemn Occasion and a Challenge

By A. Govea • alberto@holatexas.us

July 28 2026

This past Saturday, LULAC Council 4568, together with Hola Texas, hosted a Vigil of remembrance for those murdered by ICE, with a special focus on the latest victims—Lorenzo Salgado Araujo and the many individuals currently held in ICE detention centers in Texas and beyond.

The gathering began with a moment of silence to honor all who have died at the hands of ICE, as well as the recent casualties of the Iran War. Although the event was scheduled for 8:30 a.m. with plans to begin no later than 8:45, we ultimately started closer to 9:00 a.m. as we waited for more attendees. Public events are unpredictable—sometimes, one person arrives, sometimes one hundred. This time, our number was closer to the former.

Bishop Alfredo Garcia of the Missionaries of the Holy Cross opened the Vigil with prayer, and all present bowed their heads in respect for the lives lost. Hola Texas editor and writer Denise Jimenez then shared excerpts from her recent reporting on ICE violence. At moments, emotion caught in her voice. These stories are difficult to write and even harder to retell—but they must be told.

Everyone in attendance expressed deep concern for the ongoing harm inflicted on humanity within our own country, and a shared resolve to continue speaking out and ensuring their voices are heard in November.

Local writer and community activist Richard Gonzalez also spoke, detailing the horrific conditions inside ICE detention centers. He referenced reports indicating that girls as young as 13 have been found to be pregnant while in detention—an appalling reality that underscores the urgency of reform.

While Vigils traditionally focus on remembrance rather than politics, several attendees noted that it is impossible to ignore the role of Republican lawmakers who continue funding ICE without demanding accountability for its violent and illegal actions.

I would be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed by the turnout. Pero, as Tiffany Burks candidate for Tarrant County District Attorney reminded us—paraphrasing her father— “We should be thankful for those who are here and not worry about those who are absent.” With that in mind, I extend heartfelt thanks to our LULAC Council 4568 members who attended and helped set up. We also welcomed community members from Arlington, one from Cleburne, City Councilman Carlos Flores, and Emerico Perez, who attended on behalf of State Representative Ramon Romero, who was out of town.

The Challenge Ahead

At the Vigil, we displayed a large poster board for participants to write prayers and messages of support for affected families. Across the top, it read “Fort Worth Cares.” Because attendance was low, only a few signatures filled the board. Bishop Alfredo helped by inviting some of his parishioners to add their messages as well.

Fort Worth, I know we can do better. Watch this space—Next time, we will do better.

In the meantime, please contact your congressional representatives and urge them to stop ICE’s unchecked violence and demand accountability.