Governor Hochul calls for the return of 7-year-old NYC student detained by ICE during Trump administration.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul is calling for the immediate return of a 7-year-old public school student from New York City, who was recently taken into custody by federal immigration authorities during an immigration check. This incident has drawn attention amidst a broader crackdown on immigration policies attributed to the Trump administration.

The child, Dayra, an Ecuadorian student enrolled at P.S. 89 The Jose Peralta School of Dreamers in Queens, was separated from her mother, Martha, and her 19-year-old brother, Manuel, on August 12, 2025, during the check-in at 26 Federal Plaza. Following the apprehension, Dayra and her mother were transported to a mega detention facility located near the U.S. southern border, while Manuel was taken to a separate facility in the Northeast.

In a public statement, Governor Hochul emphasized her commitment to work alongside the federal government to ensure border security. However, she underscored the importance of shifting focus away from families and children, asserting that society should prioritize the deportation of individuals who pose a genuine threat, rather than those who contribute positively to local communities. Hochul expressed that the separation of families in this manner is both “cruel and unjust,” questioning its effectiveness in enhancing safety in New York or across the nation.

The family has faced significant turmoil as they navigated the immigration system. Martha’s partner, Patricio, conveyed concerns about their fears of deportation back to Ecuador, particularly since the family had previously fled domestic violence. Although an immigration judge denied Martha’s asylum claim last year, they had managed to remain in the U.S. by attending regular immigration appointments.

The Department of Homeland Security did not respond to requests for additional comments regarding this case. The Trump administration has faced criticism for its immigration policies, which many argue have disproportionately targeted individuals without criminal histories. Recent reports indicate that less than half of immigration arrests by ICE in New York City have involved individuals with prior convictions.

In light of these events, Governor Hochul has previously taken a stand against certain Trump administration policies while managing a relationship that has seen cooperation in some areas, such as infrastructure and health initiatives. She also made headlines for pardoning an immigrant with a longstanding manslaughter conviction to prevent his deportation.

On August 18, Hochul called for improved conditions at the impromptu detention center at 26 Federal Plaza, citing overcrowding and inadequate access to legal counsel for detainees. She further criticized the federal government’s approach, asserting that deporting families and children undermines the promises made by President Trump to focus on apprehending serious offenders. The first day of school is set for September 4, adding urgency to the pleas for Dayra’s return to her family and community.

As the debate surrounding immigration policies continues to intensify, the outcomes of such cases remain crucial for thousands of families across the nation. Media News Source invites further discussion on the implications of these policies and the experiences of those affected.