Paula Callejas’s family and advocates are calling for her immediate release. The Canadian entrepreneur and creator of the now ubiquitous one-piece “invisible bikini” was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents following arrest for battery. Callejas grew up in Montreal, the son of Colombian immigrants. Today, she’s focused on stabilizing her growing swimsuit business, which she pressed pause on to take care of her sick father, who died in 2020.
Callejas was recently riding high off the success of her new line of swimwear, which she opened up in Canada circa 2012. After a short hiatus to care for her father, she returned to entrepreneurship. Not long after, she got invited to participate in Miami Swim Week with a collection of her designs. She invested in this opportunity by relocating to Florida and buying assets. Though living a humble life, she focused on growing her empire.
Legal Troubles and Detention
On March 28, Callejas was arrested after a physical fight with her then-boyfriend. His arrest for the domestic battery charge and later at a domestic violence shelter resulted in deportation by ICE. Her family insists she was defending herself and maintains her innocence amid the legal turmoil.
Callejas had been living in the United States under an employment-based non-immigrant visa tailored for workers with extraordinary ability. That visa was going to expire in March, so she applied for an extension in February. Unfortunately, that needed extension was denied because of a technicality involving the color of ink with which the official had signed the application.
“She was very strong, very strong,” – Maria Estella Cano
Her family is now dealing with economic hardship while they continue to untangle this tangle of legal and immigration red tape. They’ve made their frustration known with the process and the complete uncertainty surrounding Callejas’ future in the U.S.
Impact on Mental Health
Callejas’ family has said that her mental health is worsening the longer she stays in detention. In quite stark language, they detail how her mental health deteriorated as she described being in mind numbing despair in her situation.
4 Maria Estella Cano, Callejas’ family member, talked about the painful toll that her worry took on her health.
“Now every, every day she (cries), every day and (says) she can’t take it anymore.” – Maria Estella Cano
This emotional toll adds another layer of complexity to the family’s struggle as they work tirelessly to secure Callejas’ release and ensure her case is heard fairly.
A Dream Deferred
Callejas’ inspiring entrepreneur’s journey started in passion, though it was disrupted by the tragic loss of a loved one and subsequent legal challenges. Following the passing of her father, she was inspired to keep his spirit alive by rekindling her entrepreneurial dreams. Her presence in Miami Swim Week proved to be a pivotal moment for her business. Her family roots for her to be back chasing her dreams again as soon as possible.
Callejas’ story highlights the challenges faced by many immigrants, particularly those attempting to build lives and businesses in the United States. Her family strongly supports her side in this difficult time. We’re thanking them for helping show the human, aspirational stories behind immigration policies.
“Every time I open my eyes, it is not real life,” – Maria Estella Cano
