NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE, In a heartbreaking plea, the Romeike family, a Christian family who sought asylum in the US 15 years ago to escape persecution for homeschooling their children in Germany, is now desperately asking for the Biden administration's intervention to prevent deportation, sparking outrage and a debate over education and parental rights.
Uwe and Hannelore Romeike fled Germany with their five children in 2008 after they were threatened with prosecution for homeschooling their children, a practice that is rarely allowed in Germany.
Their decision to seek asylum in the US came after they were threatened with a hefty $9,000 fine.
Romeike family struggles over their Christian faith
The Romeike family's journey through the US immigration system has been fraught with challenges.
After the initial asylum claim was denied in 2013, they attempted to appeal the decision when the Obama administration challenged the initial ruling. Despite their years of residence in the US, they do not hold American citizenship.
For the past ten years, the Romeike family has been allowed to remain in the US under an "indefinite deferred action status," as per Daily Mail.
However, earlier this month, they received the devastating news that they must return to Germany. This decision has prompted the family to reach out to the Biden administration, desperately hoping for intervention to prevent their deportation.
The Romeike family's initial argument for asylum was rooted in their belief that homeschooling was their religious duty, claiming that German schools promoted an "anti-Christian" message.
They fear that returning to Germany would expose them to the same persecution they fled from, as the laws in Germany regarding homeschooling have not changed significantly.
Internet outraged over Romeike family's deportation
Internet users expressed shock and disbelief regarding The Romeike family's deportation, juxtaposed with the influx of millions of individuals crossing the open US border.
One user wrote on X, "Shameful. I don't recognize my country." Another one added, "The evil of this regime with tentacles throughout our country are treacherous. We are to only fear God, not man. I pray for this family and if anyone can help them I pray it happen soon! Our country is on an evil trajectory and anyone not fitting in their agenda are in danger."
A user claimed, "Oh my. I recall the 2008 story when they were being threatened by the German government for homeschooling their own children. This is completely insane."
"The Republic has fallen. Every American should fly their flag upside down. May God help us!" a user said.
Another one chimed in, "Isn't this family what America is supposed to be all about. They should be saved from this disgusting treatment."
A user stated, "This administration is the worst!" "Fly to Mexico and then walk back in through the southern border."