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A vigil is set to take place tonight in New Paltz to support Ali Sajad Faqirzada, an Afghan man currently detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Faqirzada, a student at Bard College, was detained on October 14 after attending a court hearing where he was seeking asylum.
The vigil will be held at Peace Park on Plattekill Avenue from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. It will include prayers and calls for Faqirzada's release, with remarks from interfaith clergy and community leaders. According to Daily Freeman, the event aims to show solidarity and support for Faqirzada, affirming the dignity and safety of all individuals seeking refuge.
Faqirzada has lived in the United States since February 2022, following the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan and the Taliban's return to power. Since his detention, local activists and officials, including U.S. Representative Pat Ryan and Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger, have advocated for his release.