Southwest Airlines Employee Arrested by ICE at Nashville Airport

Lorenzo Thompson, a flight attendant for Southwest Airlines, was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers at Nashville International Airport last week. According to the Department of Homeland Security, Thompson entered the United States on a six-month visa in 2021 but did not leave when it expired. An ICE representative stated that Thompson overstayed his visa and will remain in custody pending immigration proceedings. The agency noted that individuals who self-deport may receive a cash stipend and a free flight home, with the possibility of returning legally to the U.S. Thompson's union, TWU Local 556, is in communication with his family and is working with legal counsel regarding the situation. The Labor Council for Latin American Advancement and the Association of Flight Attendants expressed solidarity with Thompson. A GoFundMe campaign for Thompson has raised over $43,000 towards its $45,000 goal.