When Jasmine* sought help from the Center in 2016, she was facing both immigration uncertainty and the trauma of abuse.
Brought to the United States at age 7, she had grown up here and knew no other home. At 13, she became trapped in a violent relationship with a 24-year-old man who repeatedly sexually assaulted her.
It was through a medical appointment that Jasmine found her first opportunity to disclose the abuse and begin her journey to safety. Showing remarkable strength, Jasmine cooperated with law enforcement’s investigation of these crimes, making her eligible for a U Visa.
Our legal team pursued a dual-track strategy: filing for her U Visa while maintaining her DACA status over the years to ensure she remained protected throughout the lengthy process. Beyond legal representation, we connected Jasmine with vital support services, recognizing that her path forward required both emotional and practical support.
After years of steadfast advocacy, Jasmine’s U Visa has been approved, giving her lawful status, work authorization, and a path to permanent residency. Her story reminds us that the path to safety and security is often long, but with dedicated legal support and unwavering advocacy, survivors can find stability and begin to heal.
We are proud to share Senior Attorney Yeison Soto Valdez is the new Board Chair for the Legal Aid Association of California (LAAC)!
In his new role as Board Chair, Yeison will work closely with LAAC’s executive director to ensure that LAAC’s work aligns with its mission. LAAC, which is the statewide membership organization of legal services nonprofits, serves and strengthens its members through advocacy, training, and support in their efforts to provide critical legal assistance to low-income Californians and ensure equal access to justice.
Working alongside fellow advocates and community partners, Directing Attorney of Immigration Michelle Carey testified at City Hall on the benefit to immigrant survivors by making Los Angeles a Sanctuary City. The ordinance, which passed unanimously earlier this month, prohibits any City resources, including property or personnel, from being utilized for immigration enforcement.
Michelle’s testimony highlighted how fear of immigration enforcement heightens risks for survivors by deterring them from seeking help or accessing vital services. She also addressed how local resources would better serve our community by supporting immigrant survivors and families with essential services, rather than being directed toward unjust immigration detention and enforcement activities.
While this victory marks a step forward, we remain united with our community partners in advocating for stronger protections that ensure all community members can live with dignity and safety.
Coming in 2025!
Stay tuned as we prepare to unveil our new logo in the new year!
We are excited to share our new visual identity honoring our legacy of empowerment through law and our ongoing commitment to supporting survivors’ journey to safety and justice.
