House Democrats Statement on Imam Ayman's ICE Detainment, Revoked Asylum Status

COLUMBUS — Members of the House Democratic Caucus today released the following statement concerning Imam Ayman Soliman, a former chaplain at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, who was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on July 9th after his asylum status was revoked on June 3rd:

“I am calling on the U.S. Congress to fix our immigration system so that we can go back to being a nation that honors the basic tenets of liberty and freedom from tyranny upon which our country was founded,” said Rep. Karen Brownlee (D-Symmes Twp).

“Imam Ayman Soliman is a man of peace and empathy—a caregiver, a faith leader, and a bridge-builder in our community. He embodies the values that make this nation stronger: dignity, faith, service, and inclusion,” said Rep. Rachel Baker (D-Cincinnati). “It is deeply disturbing that we are now detaining non-criminal religious leaders who are following the legal process. We are calling for answers and accountability following his unexpected detention. The America I believe in prioritizes compassion, common sense, and due process.”

“I strongly condemn ICE and this Administration for continuing to uphold a system rooted in cruelty, fear, and injustice. What they’re doing isn’t just wrong—it’s inhumane and unconstitutional. Imam Ayman Soliman is a beloved leader and a vital part of our community. Deporting him, a legal asylum seeker, is not just heartless, it’s a death sentence. We can’t let this happen. Not in our name. Not on our watch,” said Rep. Munira Abdullahi (D-Columbus).

Lawmakers, faith leaders, and supporters held a press conference Wednesday calling for Ayman’s release, who is currently being held in Butler County jail.