Columbus group honors 36 detainees killed in 2026

People Power United is observing Dia de los Muertos this weekend to honor individuals who died in federal immigration detention.

The group is marking the Mexican holiday, which falls on November 1 and 2, with a focus on those who lost their lives in ICE custody or during encounters with agents. The organization plans to use photographs, candles, and marigolds to create memorials for these individuals.

The push for remembrance comes amid a rise in reported deaths among people held by federal immigration authorities. The Department of Homeland Security and ICE have acknowledged 36 deaths in custody during 2026. Reports suggest that number may not include everyone who has died. Some individuals have reportedly passed away shortly after being released from detention, including cases where people were allegedly discharged while gravely ill or into unsafe conditions.

Since August 2025, Congress has provided ICE more than $113 billion. This amount is over ten times the agency's typical annual budget. During this period, the agency has also dismantled internal oversight mechanisms. Medical experts have raised concerns about delayed treatment and inadequate care in detention facilities.

The organization is naming specific individuals to keep their stories visible. Renee Nicole Good is described as a mother of three who loved poetry and singing. Alex Pretti, a Minneapolis resident, died during a federal immigration operation, a death that sparked questions about the use of force. Johan Sebastian Duran Guerrero is remembered by his family as a devoted father and loving partner.

People Power United argues that these individuals were more than statistics or immigration records. The group emphasizes that they were workers, neighbors, and friends who had families and futures. The organization states that when the government takes someone into custody, it assumes responsibility for their safety, a duty that does not disappear because of a person's origin or status.

Communities across the country are gathering from October 31 through November 2 for vigils and memorial altars. Participants are calling on Congress to remove ICE from their communities, redirect its funding, and close ICE detention centers. The events are part of a broader effort to demand transparency and accountability for families who are still waiting for investigations or public reports.

The group invites residents to view a memorial gallery and find local events. They are also encouraging people to contact Congress to demand immigration reform and stronger accountability. The organization notes that some families are still seeking records and explanations for their loved ones' deaths.

The upcoming events are scheduled for the next few days. The memorial gallery is available for viewing online, and local gatherings are taking place in various locations. The group maintains that remembering these individuals is an act of love and a way to ensure their stories do not disappear.