January 14, 2026

The Green Party Elders have officially signed the“Free Des” Letter, calling for the immediate release of Daniel “Des” Sanchez Estrada from federal prison. Since July 6, 2025, Estrada has been incarcerated for distributing materials that voiced opposition to Trump administration policies.

The arrest occurred two days after a demonstration at the Prairieland ICE Detention Center in Texas. FBI agents reportedly followed Estrada to the facility where his wife was being held for her participation in the protest. After being pulled over for a minor traffic violation, Estrada was arrested and charged for distributing literature that was already accessible to the public.

Jim Becklund, Green Elders Co-Chair from Michigan, emphasized the fundamental rights at stake:

“In our country, everyone has the right to peaceful protest, whether it’s through demonstrations or passing out literature. Daniel Sanchez’s arrest is completely wrong. He needs to be released.”

Following the initial arrest, Estrada was charged with conspiring to conceal documents related to his case. Advocates point out that the prosecution is directly targeting his immigration status. This strategy sets a dangerous precedent, criminalizing dissent and paving the way for broader attacks on immigrant, migrant, and refugee communities.

Jacqui Deveneau, Green Elders Co-Chair from Maine, expanded on the gravity of the situation:

“The statement ‘A threat to Des is a threat to us all’ sums up the climate in our country towards peaceful dissent of unjust policies. Furthermore, the use of legal and administrative systems to target and intimidate our immigrant neighbors is an unjust threat that undermines the safety and dignity of all families.”The Green Elders are calling on all organizations and groups dedicated to defending a free and open society to join them in signing the  solidarity statement.