'Being There Was Torture': Journalist Estefany Rodríguez on Her ICE Detention

'Being There Was Torture': Journalist Estefany Rodríguez on Her ICE Detention

Author: My Cultura, Futuro and iHeartPodcasts May 1, 2026 Duration: 26:42

Estefany Rodríguez, a Nashville-based journalist from Colombia, was arrested and detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement this past March. In this episode, Estefany gave Latino USA a shocking account about her detention and the inhuman conditions she experienced and witnessed. Estefany’s lawyers argue that her detention was retaliation for her reporting on immigration enforcement and ICE operations.

We discuss what Estefany’s case shows about the conditions of immigration detention, and what it means that immigrant journalists could be targeted for their reporting in the United States.

This story is part of our democracy and election coverage: The Latino Factor: How We Vote.

Latino USA is the longest-running news and culture radio program in the U.S., centering Latino stories and hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa.

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For decades, Latino USA has offered a vital and nuanced soundscape, chronicling the multifaceted lives of Latino communities across the United States and beyond. Guided by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa, this Peabody Award-winning program digs deep, moving beyond headlines to share intimate narratives and investigative reports that reveal the cultural, political, and social currents shaping our world. As the longest-running radio show of its kind, it has built a legacy of trust and depth, exploring everything from personal identity and family legacy to immigration policy and artistic innovation. Each episode feels like a necessary conversation, one that illuminates the hearts and minds of a dynamic population whose stories are often filtered through someone else's lens. Here, those stories are told with authenticity and care. Produced by My Cultura, Futuro and iHeartPodcasts, this podcast is an essential listen for anyone seeking to understand the complex tapestry of contemporary society. The weekly installments are more than just reporting; they are documentary pieces that capture the ongoing impact of Latino voices. For those who wish to engage further, the Futuro+ membership offers additional content and behind-the-scenes perspectives, supporting the independent journalism at the core of this essential program.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Latino USA
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