Who Is Yaakub?
His name is Yaakub (Jacob) Ira Vijandre. He's a Muslim-Philippino photojournalist and Beloved Brother to the Dallas Community. He arrived in America at age 14. He built a life under DACA. He worked to serve others and uplift justice with his camera. And now he's fighting for his freedom.
His Journey
Arrival: September 11, 2001
Yaakub arrived in America at just 14 years old. His father came on an aviation contract, working as a specialist in the industry. But when 9/11 happened, everything changed. His father's aviation contract was terminated. The family was left to rebuild from scratch.
Building a Life Under DACA
Under DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), Yaakub worked hard to build a meaningful life. He pursued careers in service — becoming a Senior Airline Safety Specialist at American Airlines, helping passengers stay safe. He was dedicated, trusted, and valued by his employers and colleagues.
First Responder: American Airlines Flight 5342
When American Airlines Flight 5342 crashed in Dallas, Yaakub was there as a first responder. He put himself in harm's way to help others — the mark of true character. This act of service defines who he is: someone who shows up, who cares, who helps.
Educator & Cultural Keeper
Yaakub is a true bearer of Filipino culture, as a historian, Filipino Martial Artist, graphic novelist, and teacher of the ancient Filipino writing script Baybayin. He was an educator, a keeper of culture, helping others understand and value the beauty of his background.
Heritage & Legacy
The great grand-son of Congressional Gold Medal recipient and World War II Veteran Sergeant Lorenzo Fabian, Yaakub carries on the legacy of his great grandfather through his service to the larger Dallas Fort Worth community. This legacy of service, courage, and dedication runs deep in his blood.
Photojournalist & Advocate
In Dallas/Fort Worth, Yaakub used his camera to document Palestinian solidarity events and social justice movements. He lent his voice and his lens to people fighting for freedom — doing the work of a journalist: bearing witness, telling stories, advocating for the marginalized.
Refused to Become an Informant (2023)
In 2023, the FBI approached Yaakub and asked him to become an informant — to spy on members of his own community. He refused. That refusal matters. He chose integrity over pressure. He chose to stand with his people, not against them.
October 7, 2025: Arrested at Gunpoint
On October 7, 2025, armed ICE agents arrived at Yaakub's home and arrested him at gunpoint. His alleged crime? Social media posts. Posts where he advocated for Palestine, Palestinians, and political prisoners. Posts expressing his conscience.
Transferred to Georgia, No Criminal Charge
Yaakub was transferred to detention in Folkston, Georgia. And here's what matters most: he has never been charged with a crime. Not once. Over 227 days in detention — and no criminal charges.
Ramadan Behind Bars
While detained, Yaakub spent Ramadan behind bars. He scraped together leftover food to sustain himself during the holy month. Even in detention, he held onto his faith and his dignity.
DACA Revoked (December 2025)
In December 2025, while Yaakub was still in detention, his DACA status was revoked. Twenty-four years of building a life — gone. The protections that allowed him to work, study, and exist legally in America — stripped away.
Take Action Now
Yaakub's story is America's story — a story about who gets freedom and who doesn't. Help bring him home.