EDITH ESPINAL CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY WITH STATE I.D. AND WORK PERMIT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2021
MEDIA CONTACT
Austin Schuler, aschuler@faithinpubliclife.org, (540) 280-3393
Dan Clark, dclark@faithinpubliclife.org, (614) 648-3663
EDITH ESPINAL CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY WITH STATE I.D. AND WORK PERMIT
*Available for Interviews*
The mother of three who spent 40 months in sanctuary at Columbus Mennonite Church announces exciting updates in her life
Columbus, OH — On Friday, September 17th Edith Espinal is not only celebrating her birthday six months after leaving sanctuary, but she is also celebrating finally receiving her state issued identification and work permit. These are important steps for Edith as she rebuilds her life after years of inhumane and immoral targeting from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The members of Columbus Mennonite Church and volunteers with the community organization, Solidarity with Edith, celebrate with her on this important day.
Edith Espinal:
“I share the good news that we have received regarding the great struggle that I have led for several years. I am happy that we have taken a great step. Thanks to God and the work that my Lawyer Lizbeth Mateo has done, my team, and the entire community that has always supported me. I’ve received my work permit, which also allows me to obtain my driver’s license here in the state of Ohio, which has been my home for more than 25 years. Thank you very much and God bless you.”
Rev. Joel Miller, Columbus Mennonite Church:
“It’s difficult to overstate how important this is for Edith. A year ago she was confined in sanctuary, under the threat of deportation. Today she has the ability to move about freely and not only be with her family, but work to support them. We are overjoyed for her as she continues to seek permanent resident status.”
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