California Man Chooses ‘Self-Repatriation’ to Mexico Amidst Shifting U.S. Immigration Landscape

Hector Alessandro Negrete, a 43-year-old Los Angeles resident and longtime immigrant advocate, has moved to Guadalajara, Mexico, choosing to leave the United States after decades of navigating an uncertain legal status, a decision reflecting a growing sense of precarity for undocumented individuals in the U.S.

Negrete departed Los Angeles on September 4th, traveling south on Interstate 5 with his dachshund mix, Lorca. He described the move not as “self-deportation,” but as “self-repatriation,” refusing to adopt language he associates with the current administration. After years of advocating for immigration reform, including work with organizations like the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF), Negrete felt increasingly vulnerable despite his extensive community involvement. “One of my homies said, ‘Hey fool, what are you doing here?’” he recalled of a protest where he feared potential detention.

The decision was methodical, involving securing Mexican identification, registering Lorca as an emotional support animal, and announcing his plans on his Substack newsletter. Negrete, who is white-passing and fluent in both English and Spanish, also secured a remote position as executive director of Old School Hub, a U.S.-based nonprofit, allowing him financial stability in Mexico. He cited a shift in ICE enforcement tactics during recent years as a key factor, noting a growing fear among activists and community members. “I just kept telling him, ‘That’s not going to happen to you,’” said friend Mario Mariscal, recounting his initial disbelief, “But the more this administration keeps doing it, the more it’s in our face…you do have a point.” Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), a program Negrete previously did not qualify for, recently saw renewed processing of initial applications, but he stated he does not regret his decision.

Now settled in Guadalajara, Negrete is focused on building a new life, connecting with family, and exploring opportunities to support other immigrants considering similar paths. He intends to leverage his experience to advocate for greater agency and options within the immigration system. Officials have not yet commented on Negrete’s specific case, but his story highlights the complex choices facing many undocumented individuals in the United States.