Mexican mariachi singer detained by ICE in Texas to sing U.S. anthem on July 4

A young Mexican mariachi singer, Hebert Ibarra Castro, faces an uncertain future after being arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Texas. Ibarra, 20, was detained on June 25 during a traffic stop while returning from a birthday party performance in China Grove, Texas.

Despite his current circumstances, Ibarra has been chosen to perform the U.S. national anthem at the Pearsall detention center on July 4, marking the 250th anniversary of American independence. He views this as an opportunity to express his affection for the country where he grew up, though he admits to having mixed feelings about his situation.

“

If you sing me a song, I'll let you go.

Federal Representative for Texas, Joaquin Castro, has spoken out against the treatment Ibarra allegedly received. According to Univision, Castro reported on Facebook that ICE agents mocked the mariachi singer. Castro stated that an employee at the detention center taunted Ibarra, saying, 'If you sing me a song, I'll let you go.' This incident has sparked solidarity among mariachis in San Antonio, who are now singing in support of Ibarra's release.

ICE confirmed that Ibarra is in the country without legal status. Agents operating under the 287(g) program arrested him, as records indicate he entered the U.S. illegally at an unknown time. Meanwhile, Ibarra is reportedly assisting other detainees by helping them understand their legal processes and communicate with officials, acting as a translator between English and Spanish. He also offers music lessons to fellow migrants when instruments are available.

“

Even dressed in his mariachi attire, a detention center employee provoked him: 'If you sing me a song, I'll let you go.' What began as mockery has turned into an act of solidarity among San Antonio mariachis, who have united to sing, demanding his release.