Suya Joint, a popular West African restaurant in Roxbury, faces potential closure after its manager, Paul Dama, was detained by ICE on Father's Day. Owned by chef Cecelia Lizotte, Dama is currently in custody without any criminal charges against him, despite having a pending asylum application. Lizotte reported the challenges of securing legal help due to the high demand for immigration attorneys. The uncertainty surrounding Dama's situation is taking a significant emotional toll on Lizotte, who weighs her options for the restaurant's future amidst the crisis.
Lizotte said, "What am I working for, you know? The tears just keep coming when I talk about it because, no, I do not want to close."
Dama's family has struggled to find legal aid, as immigration lawyers are currently managing numerous cases, underscoring the challenges many face in the system.
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