Resolution Demanding the Release of UUP member German Machado from ICE Custody

Submitted to the Troy Area Labor Council and unanimously approved on October 21, 2026

WHEREAS, the Troy Area Labor Council has over one hundred workers represented by United University Professions (AFT-2190) within its jurisdiction and,

WHEREAS, UUP member German Machado was kidnapped by ICE outside his home in Batavia, NY on October 13th, 2026 and is currently being held at the infamous detention center in that city and,

WHEREAS, Mr. Machado entered the United States from Venezuela legally and filed a claim for affirmative asylum that has since been pending review while also on federal work authorization through 2029 and,

WHEREAS, regardless of legal status no human should be subject to the treatment ICE is infamous for and,

WHEREAS, this is another example of why, given their structural function and seeming zeal for the work, it was the correct decision of AFGE to disclaim interest in the ICE bargaining unit as they are not in solidarity with workers and,

WHEREAS, the Troy Area Labor Council affirms that an injury to one is an injury to all, then

BE IT RESOLVED, that the Troy Area Labor Council joins the New York State Governor, UUP President Fred Kowal, and all decent people of conscience in the demand that ICE immediately release German Machado so that he may rejoin his family, friends, and community and,

BE IT ALSO RESOLVED, that copies of this resolution be transmitted to State Senator Jake Ashby, Assembly Member John T. McDonald III, House Representative Paul Tonko, Representative Josh Riley, UUP President Fred Kowal, and NYS AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento.