Houston rallies for Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, who was killed by ICE

HOUSTON — In the heart of the East End, chants of “You are not alone!” echoed through Canal Street on Wednesday night. Politicians, community members and thousands gathered to honor Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, a Mexican father who was killed by ICE agents a day earlier. 

Many rallied to pray for the family, and voice their anger over the injustice of Donald Trump’s immigration raids. Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia and Congressmen Christian Menefee and Al Green stood by demanding change and emphasizing next steps. LULAC and Fiel, who are Latino organizations, also spoke on behalf of the family. 

As the march started, cries of “ICE out of Houston” resonated through the community. We walked along Canal St., which I traveled numerous times with my late grandfather as we explored the nearby flea market. We marched through Edison Middle School, where I met numerous friends – two of whom I marched alongside.

The demonstration ended at the historic gazebo of Hidalgo Park, the place where I played Little League baseball. 

Peaceful protest

During the mile-long procession, neighbors passed out free water bottles in show of support. Many residents watched from their front porches and cheered us on. An elderly lady shouted, “You guys are awesome!” as she sat in her house holding her cane. 

Many elaborate posters voiced their displeasure with ICE and President Donald Trump’s administration. Other banners called for “Justice for Lorenzo Salgado.” At the end of the march, advocates encouraged people to vote for change. In the background Matachines, who are traditional religious dancers, performed. At Hidalgo Park chants of “ICE out” continued. 

However on Canal Street, a weeping family mourned their loss. A vigil was placed where Salgado was killed. A small audience of Salgado’s loved ones and community members united in a circle.  

Candles illuminated the pole where Salgado’s work van had crashed. A sarape and balloons were placed in his honor. His grieving widow cried on her knees as one of her sons tried to comfort her. The people gathered sang religious hymns while others prayed and paid their respects.  

“Aqui estamos y no nos vamos“

This killing happened a few blocks from my home. It happened in the East End, the oldest Latino community in Houston. A community where neighbors still check up on each other. Where someone always knows someone’s cousins, aunt, uncle, grandfather, etc. 

I’ve called the East End home for 28 years. My family has been rooted here for over 70 years, when my grandparents immigrated here from Mexico. I’ve gone to all the neighborhood schools. I got married in our community church. I am even raising my son in the East End. 

So this hits very close to home. One thing I know for sure about this community is that we stand together. This community will not forget what happened on July 7, 2026, when ICE agents in unmarked cars killed one of my own. 

The people here will fight for justiceand will not let their voice be silent. Like many were yelling today; “Aqui estamos y no nos vamos.” (We are here and we aren’t going anywhere.)