The Episcopal Diocese of New York is urging public prayer and advocacy after the detention of Yeonsoo Go, a 20-year-old South Korean student and daughter of Episcopal priest Rev. Kyrie Kim. Go was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on July 31st after attending a routine visa hearing at Federal Plaza in Manhattan. She was transferred from local detention to a facility in Louisiana and now faces expedited deportation proceedings for allegedly overstaying her visa.
Detainment Sparks Outcry From Church and Community
The Episcopal Church and its allies have condemned the arrest, calling it an alarming escalation in immigration enforcement. In a statement, the Diocese of New York described Go’s detention as “unacceptable,” especially given that her visa case is still active and she has no criminal record. An interfaith vigil was held on August 2nd in Manhattan, co-hosted by the Interfaith Center of New York and the New York Immigration Coalition, demanding Go’s release.
Supporters Highlight Go’s Community Contributions
Go arrived in the U.S. in 2021 on an R-2 visa, designated for dependents of religious workers. A 2024 graduate of Scarsdale High School, she now studies pre-pharmacy at Purdue University. Her campus chaplain, Rev. Hilary Cooke, described Go as deeply involved in ministry and charity, including Purdue’s dance marathon and Girls on the Run. Supporters say her record exemplifies the kind of immigrant the U.S. should welcome.
Clergy and Advocacy Groups Demand Accountability
Indianapolis Bishop Jennifer Baskerville-Burrows labeled the detainment “illegal” and reaffirmed the diocese’s commitment to immigrant families. The Episcopal Church is providing tools for advocacy, including weekly immigration updates and an action toolkit. Another vigil is scheduled for August 7th in Scarsdale, supported by the Episcopal Asian Supper Table and other advocacy groups.
Rising Arrests Raise Broader Concerns About ICE Tactics
Go’s arrest reflects a broader trend. Federal data shows ICE has been increasingly detaining immigrants—many without criminal records—at mandated hearings and federal buildings. As of August 1st, over 56,000 immigrants are in ICE custody. Critics argue that such tactics target law-abiding residents, eroding trust in the immigration system and raising ethical and legal concerns.
[This story has been updated.]
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Church leaders call for release of Episcopal priest’s daughter who was detained by ICE
Image: Diocese of New York
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