El Paso leaders have come together to defend a longstanding migrant shelter network after Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton threatened to shut it down, citing legal noncompliance. U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, echoing the city's collective disapproval, proclaimed during a news conference held at Annunciation House, “An attack on one is an attack on all,” as reported by The Texas Tribune.
The network, which has been a community fixture for almost five decades, has become embroiled in a legal skirmish as Paxton's office seeks to forcefully gather records of the shelter’s clients. According to Yahoo News, Jerome Wesevich, a lawyer with Texas RioGrande Legal Aid representing Annunciation House, has sued the attorney general’s office, challenging the legitimacy and extent of the state's demands.
Annunciation House is known for aiding immigrants and refugees who find themselves without a home, providing not just shelter but also necessities such as food and clothing. They have played a pivotal role in the community by aiding local and federal authorities manage the influx of migrants into the city of El Paso. Their efforts are deeply rooted in the Catholic faith and are supported by local churches.
Director Ruben Garcia faced the public with fervor, condemning Paxton's accusations of the shelters being involved in smuggling and operating as stash houses, asserting, "Is there no shame to refer to houses of God, houses of hospitality as stash houses," in a statement obtained by The Texas Tribune. Mayor Oscar Leeser echoed this sentiment, pledging that the city "won't to turn its back" on anyone in need. El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego joined in solidifying local support, reportedly asserting that to “mess with Ruben, you mess with Annunciation House, you mess with us.”
The next stage in this unfolding legal drama is set for March 7, when District Judge Francisco Dominguez of El Paso is scheduled to hold a hearing on the case. The outcome could have significant implications not just for Annunciation House, but for the broader immigrant and refugee community that it serves.
