One Southwest Employee’s Final Boarding Call Came From ICE

News admin July 25, 2026 0 Comments

One Southwest Employee’s Final Boarding Call Came From ICE

Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers arrested Lorenzo Thompson, an illegal immigrant from Jamaica working as a flight attendant for Southwest Airlines, last week at the Nashville International Airport.

The Department of Homeland Security told Fox News that Thompson came to the United States on a six-month visa under Biden in 2021, but refused to leave when the visa expired.

“Against our nation’s laws, [Lorenzo Thompson] overstayed his visa and failed to depart. He will remain in ICE custody pending his immigration proceedings,” an ICE representative told Fox News.

The agency added that illegal immigrants like Thompson who self-deport are given $2,600 cash stipend, a free flight home, and the opportunity to return to the United States legally.

“We encourage every person here illegally to take advantage of this offer and reserve the chance to come back to the U.S. the right legal way to live the American dream,” the agency said. “If not, you will be arrested and deported without a chance to return.”

Thompson’s local union chapter, TWU Local 556, said it is in communication with Thompson’s family and is working with its legal counsel on how to address the situation.

“Our priority is, and always will be, standing with and supporting our Members,” it said in a statement. “Every Member deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and we are committed to ensuring this Member and their family know they are not alone during this difficult time.”

The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement and the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA) both shared a statement of solidarity with Lorenzo.

“Today, we stand with our brother Enzo and his union family. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to standing by workers and their families through every challenge,” the AFA said.

A GoFundMe for Thompson started by his friend Kristin Foster has raised $43,018 of its $45,000 target as of Thursday afternoon.

“Lorenzo came to the United States legally from Jamaica in 2021, seeking safety from life-threatening abuse,” Foster stated. “Since arriving, he has worked tirelessly to build a stable life, following every legal step toward citizenship. He has no criminal record. No parking tickets. He holds a valid work permit, has a pending case with US immigration and is a dedicated Flight Attendant for a beloved airline.”