Ernesto Leal came from Chile to Britain as a child in the 1970s, fleeing Pinochet's repression with the rest of his family. After living in Scotland for years, he now lives in Hackney. His first language is English, he now longer has family in Chile. Ernesto is British.
But the government wants to kick him out of the country. Why? Because he got in trouble with the law a few years back (a pub fight followed by an 18-month spell in prison), and when the Tories and the tabloids began their hysterical outcry about 'foreign criminals', Ernesto was a convenient pawn in a political game.
Ernesto's next hearing is on 31st August. His campaign is collecting messages of support, and will publish a list of trade union supporters today. So please take a few minutes to Ernesto's sister Sonia with some supportive words, giving your name and union post.
You can read more about Ernesto's case on the Hackney TUC website or on the Friends of Ernesto website.
Ernesto Won!
Click here for details.