A beloved drag performer from Guatemala, Hilary Rivers, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in San Francisco just moments after what should have been a legal win. The LGBTQ+ icon, known for her bold performances and fierce activism, had just attended an asylum hearing where a judge rejected a motion to dismiss her case. But as she exited the courtroom, ICE was waiting.
Rivers fled Guatemala after facing relentless persecution for being gay—despite same-sex relations being technically legal in the country. Guatemala still refuses to recognize same-sex marriages or civil unions, and queer people endure brutal discrimination and societal hostility. Hilary, like many queer immigrants, believed that San Francisco’s sanctuary status and rich queer culture would offer safety. Instead, she ended up in ICE custody.
The backlash from the LGBTQ+ community has been swift and loud. San Francisco Pride released a pointed statement slamming the detention: “San Francisco is the vibrant city we know today because of the contributions of immigrants, especially queer immigrants.” The group is urging supporters to write letters of solidarity and push for Rivers’ release. Local queer organizations, including Galería de la Raza and Instituto Familiar de la Raza, are rallying behind her, calling her a “beloved community member” and a symbol of queer resilience.
This isn’t just a deportation case—it’s a warning shot. The targeting of LGBTQ+ immigrants undermines both due process and the sanctuary policies cities like San Francisco are known for. More importantly, it sends a chilling message: that being visibly queer and outspoken can make you a target, even in a city that flies the rainbow flag high.
Hilary’s case is part of a growing pattern of crackdowns on marginalized communities. When drag queens—especially those who are immigrants and people of color—are treated like threats instead of treasures, it’s a direct hit to the heart of queer culture. As Alaska of Drag Race recently said, “Human beings are not illegal.” That message is especially true when those human beings are already fighting battles most Americans couldn’t imagine.
As this story develops, one thing is certain: the queer community won’t stay silent. Hilary Rivers may be locked up, but her chosen family is marching loud, proud, and ready to fight for her freedom.