Children’s entertainer Ms. Rachel has a new cause: Freeing kids from ICE detention

Children’s Entertainer Ms. Rachel Takes On ICE Detention

A child in a low-quality video connection appeared distressed. “I don’t want to be here anymore,” he said. “Nothing is good here.” Since March, 9-year-old Deiver Henao Jimenez had been confined with his parents at the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in South Texas. The child’s grievances included inadequate schooling, persistent lighting, and questionable meals. During the call, he shared his longing for friends and discomfort from the food, though his primary concern was something else. Before detention, he had triumphed in his school’s spelling bee and earned a regional third-place finish, securing a spot at New Mexico’s state competition in May. “I want to leave and go to the spelling bee,” he declared.

Ms. Rachel’s Unexpected Role

Ms. Rachel, whose real name is Rachel Accurso, donned her trademark pink headband and leaned into the screen, offering reassurance. “Oh, I’m so sorry,” she said, her tone familiar to millions. “A lot of people want to try to help.” Her voice wavered as she reflected on the encounter. “It was unbelievably surreal to see this sweet little face and feel like I was on a call with somebody who’s in jail,” she told NBC News in an exclusive interview. “It broke me, and it was something I never thought I’d encounter in life.”

“You have a real gift for spelling. You’re so smart.”

From Global Advocacy to Homefront Action

Accurso’s awareness of Dilley began in January when federal agents detained the father of 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos in Minneapolis. The family was sent to the remote, prison-like facility, where a photo of Liam — clad in a blue bunny hat and Spider-Man backpack — ignited widespread public interest. Though they were later released, their asylum request was denied this week. Since then, Accurso has shifted her focus to domestic issues, collaborating with legal experts and activists to push for Dilley’s closure. “I’m working to ensure kids and their parents are back in their communities where they belong,” she stated.

Conditions at Dilley Under Scrutiny

Parents and immigration attorneys have reported alarming conditions at Dilley, including children finding worms in their meals, enduring anxiety from constant patrols, and waiting hours for basic medical care. Some have experienced urgent health crises while detained. While the number of children in custody has dropped from around 500 in January to about 50 this week, according to The New York Times, the reasons remain unclear. Advocates and lawmakers have applied sustained pressure, leading to this reduction.

The Department of Homeland Security has dismissed accounts of poor conditions as “mainstream media lies,” emphasizing that Dilley is “purpose-built” for family needs. However, Accurso’s recent experience has deepened her resolve. After Liam’s detention, she began researching Dilley, and last week’s video call with Deiver and another boy solidified her determination. “It was a turning point,” she explained. Journalist Lidia Terrazas, who has chronicled Dilley’s operations for N+ Univision, facilitated the connection, allowing Accurso to hear firsthand from those inside.

A Voice for All Children

Accurso has long championed children in crisis, advocating for those in war zones and refugee camps. Her efforts have raised substantial funds and sparked debate over her stance in global conflicts. Yet, her core belief remains unchanged: “I see all children as precious and equal.” Now, she channels this philosophy toward the U.S. immigration system, aiming to highlight the plight of detained families and drive systemic change.