In the heart of the Bay Area, a powerful story of resilience and resistance is unfolding. Hilary Rivers, a Latinx drag performer, is reclaiming her narrative after enduring three months in ICE detention, transforming her pain into a profound act of protest.

Rivers, originally from El Salvador and raised in Guatemala, fled her home country due to persistent threats of violence for being gay. Her journey brought her first to Mexico and eventually to San Francisco, where she finally felt accepted. However, her path to safety was far from smooth.

On June 26, while attending a routine immigration court hearing with her lawyer, Rivers was suddenly detained by ICE agents. Despite warnings from friends about potential risks, she chose to attend her hearing, understanding the consequences of not doing so.

During her detention at the Golden State Annex in McFarland, California, Rivers experienced dehumanizing conditions. She described overcrowded cells where detainees were forced to stand for hours, with no space to sit, inadequate air circulation, and freezing temperatures.

Despite these challenges, Rivers persevered. In late September, she was granted asylum, marking a significant victory in her fight for safety and dignity. Her resilience hasn’t wavered; instead, she’s channeling her experience into activism.

This Friday, Rivers will perform at the “Caballo Blanco Against ICE” show at Oakland’s White Horse Inn, alongside fellow drag performers Xochitl and Tori Tia. The event is more than just a performance, it’s a powerful statement against systemic oppression.

“I paid a high price, but nothing is impossible,” Rivers told local media. Her message to other immigrants is clear: “Don’t let them break you. Don’t sign things you don’t understand. Know your rights”.

To support her journey of rebuilding, Rivers has launched a GoFundMe campaign, which has already raised over $6,000. Her story is a testament to the strength of the LGBTQ+ immigrant community and a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for justice.

Through performance, visibility, and unwavering courage, Rivers is transforming her personal struggle into a broader movement of resistance and hope.