This is not only a moment that his family fought for, but also many in his community.
Ricardo Hernandez Navarette walked across the stage and received his high school diploma on Thursday. This was a milestone that was nearly missed.
The 18-year-old soon-to-be former Mather High School student was released from federal custody in Kentucky two days ago, reuniting with his mother, who also spent time detained by immigration authorities. Liliana Navarrete was released from ICE custody last week.
The two were arrested by ICE back in March during a routine immigration hearing after DHS says they entered the country illegally.
DHS says they entered the country illegally from Colombia in 2022. The family applied for asylum and are legally allowed to remain in the country while their case moves forward.
Hernandez spoke alongside his mother on Thursday.
"We can do everything with the hand of the God," Hernandez said. "Each day I think about everything, but I also prayed to Lord that he give us the victory to be here."
The graduation ceremony began promptly at 6 p.m., with the teenager's family, including his mother, proudly watching in the audience.
Hernandez is already committed to play soccer at Truman College next year, but that is all dependent on his asylum petition being approved. That hearing was originally scheduled for July 14. However, his attorney expects that date to be moved.