Andry José Hernández Romero is more than just a name in the news. He’s a 31-year-old gay makeup artist from Venezuela who fled his home country to escape persecution, only to find himself caught in the crossfire of U.S. immigration policies. His story is one of resilience, injustice, and the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ rights across borders. So, what exactly happened to him, and why is his case making headlines across Washington and beyond?

Hernández Romero’s journey started with hope. He came to the U.S. in 2024 seeking asylum after facing discrimination and threats in Venezuela due to his sexual orientation and political views. But instead of finding safety, he was detained by ICE and deported to El Salvador, a country where violence and instability run high. He was locked up in a dangerous prison and kept there for over 125 days — all without due process.

Now that he’s been released, many are asking: What does this say about how the U.S. handles asylum seekers? And what comes next for Andry José Hernández Romero? Let’s dive into the full story, the people behind the headlines, and what it all means for the future of immigration policy in America.

• Osteria Carlina West Village

Table of Contents

• Biography of Andry José Hernández Romero
• Personal Details & Bio Data
• The Timeline of His Detainment and Deportation
• Human Rights Concerns and International Response
• Frequently Asked Questions

Biography of Andry José Hernández Romero

Andry José Hernández Romero, a 31-year-old from Venezuela, is a makeup artist and actor who fled his country in search of safety. His decision to leave wasn’t easy — he faced discrimination and harassment in Venezuela because of his sexual orientation and outspoken criticism of President Nicolás Maduro. He arrived in the U.S. in 2024, hoping to start over and build a life free from fear.

But his asylum process didn’t go as planned. In March 2025, he was among more than 260 Venezuelan men deported to El Salvador under a controversial policy by the Trump administration. The deportations were carried out without warning or due process, raising serious concerns about how the U.S. treats asylum seekers.

Personal Details & Bio Data

The Timeline of His Detainment and Deportation

Andry’s ordeal began in August 2024 when he was detained by U.S. immigration officers. He had applied for asylum, citing his fears of persecution in Venezuela. But instead of being granted protection, he was placed in custody and flown to El Salvador without being given a fair chance to fight his case.

• Dr Pimple Popper Videos

He was held at CECOT prison — a high-security facility known for its violent conditions. For over four months, he had no access to legal representation, limited communication with the outside world, and faced the daily risk of abuse or worse. His lawyer, who spoke out on his behalf, called the situation a violation of basic human rights.

Eventually, Andry was released as part of a prisoner exchange between El Salvador and Venezuela. His release came after significant pressure from activists, human rights groups, and journalists who highlighted the injustice of his detainment and the broader implications for other asylum seekers in similar situations.

Human Rights Concerns and International Response

Andry’s case is not just about one individual — it’s a reflection of how asylum seekers are treated at the hands of U.S. immigration policies. His deportation to El Salvador raised alarms across the globe. Organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch condemned the move, pointing out that El Salvador has one of the highest murder rates in the world and is not a safe country for LGBTQ+ individuals.

His lawyer, who fought hard for his release, noted that sending Andry to a country where he had no ties and where his identity could put him at risk was a clear violation of international law. Many also pointed out that under the Trump administration, the use of expedited removals and mass deportations became increasingly common, often at the expense of due process and human dignity.

Following his release, Andry has been working with advocates to share his story and push for policy changes. His experience has become part of a larger conversation about immigration reform, LGBTQ+ rights, and the moral responsibility of the U.S. to protect those fleeing persecution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Andry José Hernández Romero deported to El Salvador?

Andry was deported under a controversial policy that allowed the U.S. government to expel large groups of asylum seekers without giving them a fair chance to present their cases. In his case, he was among 238 Venezuelan migrants sent to El Salvador in March 2025, a move that human rights groups have criticized as unlawful and dangerous.

Was Andry José Hernández Romero in danger while detained in El Salvador?

Yes. He was held at CECOT prison, a high-security facility known for gang violence, poor living conditions, and limited access to medical care. Being openly gay in such an environment placed him at even higher risk. His lawyer and advocacy groups expressed deep concerns about his safety during his detainment.

Has Andry José Hernández Romero returned to the U.S.?

Not yet. He was released from prison in El Salvador as part of a prisoner swap and is currently in Venezuela. His legal team is working to explore options for him to return to the U.S., where he originally sought asylum. For now, he remains in a precarious position, as Venezuela is the country he originally fled from due to persecution.

What Can You Do?

If you're moved by Andry’s story, there are ways to help. You can support organizations that advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and fair immigration policies. Sharing his story on social media or with friends and family helps raise awareness. You can also sign petitions or contact your local representatives to call for reform in how asylum seekers are treated in the U.S.

For more information on immigration rights and the impact of current policies on LGBTQ+ individuals, you can learn more about immigration reform and LGBTQ+ protections on our site.

External Resources

If you want to dive deeper into the topic, you can read more about Andry José Hernández Romero’s case and similar stories on Amnesty International's website.