Charity Grace Mukamuri, a 43-year-old green card holder, revealed her ordeal after being released from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody. Mukamuri, originally from Zimbabwe, was held at the Camp East Montana detention facility in El Paso, Texas, from late 2025 until mid-2026. She described her detention experience as traumatic and is now seeking therapy to heal.
Mukamuri’s account contributed to a Newsweek investigation into the conditions at the detention site. She reported worsening conditions and alleged retaliation after detainees shared information externally. “I feel a sense of relief that my process is done,” Mukamuri stated after her release, “but I’m struggling to cope.” Although happy to reunite with her family, she remains concerned for friends still detained.
According to Mukamuri, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) accused her of cruelty towards children. Despite these allegations, her family insists she has no criminal record and holds a valid green card. The DHS spokesperson reiterated their stance against criminal activities and indicated that illegal actions would have consequences.
Her release followed a court order by Immigration Judge Stephen Ruhle, which granted her cancellation of removal under federal law, allowing her to stay in the U.S. The order came on June 2, and she was released within 24 hours, reuniting with her family after being taken to a shelter. Mukamuri expressed both joy and concern as she faced the challenges ahead.
To cope, Mukamuri and her family are considering therapy. “We need that therapy,” she admitted. “We have a lot of rebuilding to do.” Mukamuri runs the Isaiah 54 Project, a nonprofit organization in Tulsa that assists the homeless. Her arrest on August 27, 2025, led to her incarceration across multiple facilities, impacting both her family and community work.
Mukamuri’s journey through the immigration system began with her arrest while driving from Tulsa to Jenks, Oklahoma. She moved through several facilities before ending up at Camp East Montana. During her stay, she faced challenges such as poor communication with attorneys and inadequate living conditions.
In January, detainees began documenting these conditions and shared their experiences publicly. Mukamuri described issues like subpar food quality, medical concerns, and retaliatory actions by staff. After exposing these conditions, staff allegedly attempted to identify and intimidate those involved.
She faced allegations and searches of her belongings, which she denied, calling them attempts to discredit her. These experiences have fueled her advocacy for other detainees. “My heart breaks for the women still detained,” Mukamuri shared, emphasizing the importance of documenting their stories.
By speaking out, Mukamuri aims to raise awareness of the harsh conditions detainees face. “At least the word is out,” she said, highlighting the importance of spreading the truth about the treatment within the facility.