Brother Maximo is free

Machinist Maximo Londonio was released from immigration detention on Friday, reuniting with his family

TACOMA, WA (July 14, 2025) — Maximo Londonio walked free of the Northwest Detention Center Friday morning, welcomed by his family and supporters who celebrated his release outside the gates. Brother Max, a father of three, had been detained inside of the privately-run facility in Tacoma since May 15.

Maximo Londonio is a green card holder, resident of Olympia, WA and member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) Local Lodge 695. Like fellow union member and Filipino immigrant Lewelyn Dixon, Londonio was detained by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) coming back to the United States from a trip to the Philippines, despite his legal permanent resident status.

Machinists immediately advocated for Londonio’s release. “Like so many across our country, our IAM Union Brother Maximo is simply trying to be the best husband and father he can be and provide for his family,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant in a statement at the time.

Throughout Brother Max’s detention, his union, Washington’s labor movement, and immigrants rights community groups have worked side by side to secure his release and support his family. Londonio’s wife, Crystal, has been an unwavering advocate for her husband. Together with Tanggol Migrante Network WA (TMN) and allied community groups, Londonio and his family secured the support of Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal and U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell.

While labor and community celebrate Brother Max’s release, advocates continue to push for all immigrant workers detained at the for-profit immigration prison to be released, including union brother Alfredo ‘Lelo’ Juarez Zeferino. Supporters are gathering this morning outside NWDC in a solidarity vigil during Brother Lelo’s hearing.

“We’re glad that Max has been released, but it’s a crime that he and other hard working Washingtonians were taken unjustly in the first place,” said Steve Miller, Directing Business Representative for District 160, which includes Londonio’s home local. “The fight for justice for immigrant workers continues.”