Marcelo Gomes da Silva, a 19-year-old high school senior from Milford, Massachusetts, will attend this year’s State of the Union as a guest of Representative Seth Moulton. This significant event, set for February 24, 2024, marks a poignant chapter in Gomes’ life following his arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) last year.
Gomes, who moved to the United States from Brazil at the age of six, was arrested in May 2023 while driving to volleyball practice. He was detained for six days in the Burlington ICE holding facility due to an expired visa, despite having no criminal record. The conditions he encountered during his detention were notably harsh, as he shared a small cell with many others and often slept on concrete floors.
The invitation to attend the State of the Union came as a surprise to Gomes, who admitted he had little knowledge of the event prior to Moulton’s offer. Expressing his excitement, he remarked, “I’m going to see the president. That’s crazy. I’m literally going to see him in person.” This opportunity not only offers Gomes a unique experience but also allows him to witness the political landscape he hopes to influence in the future.
Significance of the Invitation
Representative Moulton, who has been vocal about immigration reform, met Gomes when he waited outside the Burlington facility on the day of his release. Moulton was struck by Gomes’ composure and determination, stating, “When he was in detention, the people of Massachusetts heard the tragic story of an immigrant. When he came out of detention, we saw an inspiring example of a great American.” Moulton emphasized that Gomes embodies the struggles faced by many young immigrants in the country.
During his time in detention, Gomes not only dealt with the challenges of his own situation but also extended help to others. He translated documents and shared food with older detainees, highlighting his character and sense of community. “At the end, I lost seven pounds in six days,” Gomes noted, reflecting on the experience.
Moulton has since visited the holding facility twice, condemning its conditions as “inadequate and inhumane.” He believes that by attending the State of the Union, Gomes can shine a light on the injustices within the immigration system, amplifying the voices of countless immigrants who share similar stories.
Aspiring Advocate and Student
Gomes has transformed his experience into a platform for advocacy, participating in rallies, public speaking events, and discussions on immigration issues. He has expressed his desire to ask politicians about their plans for immigration reform during his time in Washington and intends to take notes during the presidential address. “I’ll bring a notebook and write down things that he says and how he feels,” he stated, viewing the event as an educational opportunity.
Despite the excitement, the prospect of flying to Washington alone raises concerns for Gomes, who has heard of instances where immigrants faced detention while traveling. Nevertheless, he remains determined to make the most of this opportunity, saying, “I’m more excited than I am nervous. It’s not something that a lot of people have the opportunity to experience, so I’m very intrigued.”
Gomes is also focused on his education and future aspirations. Originally considering a career in plumbing, he has shifted his goals toward political science, aiming to affect change in the immigration system. He has already received acceptances to two colleges and is actively seeking scholarships to fund his education without incurring debt.
As he prepares for the State of the Union, Gomes acknowledges the gravity of his situation and the larger implications of his story. “I don’t know specifically what I did to make him want to bring me,” he remarked regarding Moulton’s invitation. Yet, Moulton believes Gomes represents millions of young people in the United States, contributing to their communities while facing the challenges of an immigration system that often overlooks their humanity.
Marcela Rodrigues can be reached at [email protected].
