A Thanksgiving of Gratitude: Former ICE Detainee Shares a Meal

More than five months ago, emma Crispín de Paz, a migrant from Guatemala, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) near a Home Depot in Los Angeles, California. Her release coincided with Thanksgiving, and she chose to celebrate in a profoundly moving way.

ICE detained crispín de Paz on June 19, 2025, in front of the Home Depot located at 5600 Sunset Blvd., in the Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles. She was released on bail on Thursday, November 27th – thanksgiving day in the United States.

Instead of retreating into privacy, Crispín decided to revisit the site of her detention. She wanted to transform a negative experience into one of sharing and gratitude. “Today is a day to share,” she told Univision Los angeles.

She returned to the Home Depot with food, offering it to those present – a powerful symbol of thankfulness and resilience. Her act resonated deeply with the community,demonstrating a spirit of generosity despite her own recent hardship. Witnesses described the gesture as incredibly touching and a reminder of the human side of the immigration debate.

Crispín de Paz’s story highlights the challenges faced by many immigrants and the importance of community support.It’s a Thanksgiving story that goes beyond the customary meal, showcasing the power of kindness and the enduring human spirit.