Babson College's Response to Student's Deportation: A Complex Issue
The recent deportation of a Babson College student, Lucia Lopez Belloza, during a Thanksgiving travel attempt has sparked concern and raised questions about the college's response. The 19-year-old, who was detained at Boston Logan International Airport on November 20, was sent to Honduras despite a court order prohibiting her removal from Massachusetts or the United States.
Lopez Belloza, whose family emigrated from Honduras when she was 7, is now staying with her grandparents. The college's dean of campus life, Caitlin Capozzi, informed faculty and staff of her detention on Tuesday, emphasizing the college's focus on supporting the student and their family, as well as the well-being of the community.
The college's president, Stephen Spinelli, acknowledged the unsettling nature of the news, particularly for students, faculty, and staff already facing uncertainty. He stated that the college is following protocols and staying informed, providing links to resources for students. However, due to legal and privacy considerations, the college has chosen not to comment further.
The deportation order, issued in 2015 by an immigration judge, has raised questions about the validity of the court order and the Department of Homeland Security's response. Lopez Belloza's attorney, Todd Pomerleau, has been unable to find any record of her original deportation order, adding to the complexity of the situation.
This incident highlights the challenges faced by international students in the United States and the delicate balance between legal procedures and the well-being of the student community. As the situation unfolds, Babson College's response will continue to be a subject of interest and discussion.
