SAVING LIVES, CELEBRATING COURAGE

Limited Quantity of Reduced Price Presale Tickets Available Now

 
Purchase tickets online now
Reduced price presale tickets available
until February 20^th, 2012.  

April 25, 2012
The Four Seasons Hotel, Washington, DC
 
 
6:00: VIP Reception
6:30: General Reception
Followed by Seated Dinner & Program

Business or cocktail attire

If you are unable to attend, but would still
like to support the work of the Tahirih Justice Center, please make
an online gift now.

Regular ticket prices
(General: $275, VIP: $475) will be available February 21 through April 12.

For information regarding ticket sales or becoming a Corporate Sponsor, contact Justine Finn at 571-282-6193 or justine@tahirih.org.

*As a Bahá’í-inspired organization, Tahirih does not purchase alcoholic beverages. Alcohol will be donated by generous Tahirih supporters.

Photographs courtesy of Michael Colella

Tahirih Justice Center
15th Anniversary Gala

SAVING LIVES, CELEBRATING COURAGE

April 25, 2012 The Four Seasons Hotel, Washington, DC Business or cocktail attire 6:00: VIP Reception 6:30: General Reception Followed by Seated Dinner & Program

The Tahirih Justice Center invites you to join us in celebrating 15 years of providing lifesaving legal services and engaging in high-impact public policy advocacy on behalf of immigrant women and children fleeing violence. The Gala will begin with an elegant reception and silent auction followed by a seated dinner and program for approximately 400 guests.

Distinguished past participants have included Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan, numerous Members of Congress including then-Senator Joe Biden, and acclaimed actors including Sam Waterston (Law & Order) and Debra Winger. This year’s Anniversary Gala will be similarly well-supported and inspirational.

Ticket Sales
Reduced price presale tickets available now!

Regular Presale Tickets: $229

Amenities include:

• Cocktail Reception with passed hors d’oeuvres
• Silent Auction Reception
• Amy Lin Pearls for sale, including brand-new designs
• Four-course meal by The Four Season’s Executive Chef Douglas Anderson
• Wine, soda, tea, coffee and juice served during dinner
• Program and entertainment featuring special guests and recorded remarks by NBC Today’s Anne Curry

VIP Presale Tickets: $399

Amenities include:

• Pre-Gala VIP Cocktail Reception with passed hors d’oeuvres prior to general admission
• “Meet and greet” with special guests and presenters
• “Sneak Peek Silent Auction,” an exclusive opportunity to view and purchase silent auction items and Amy Lin Pearls
• Photo opportunity with special guests
• Four-course meal by The Four Season’s Executive Chef Douglas Anderson
• Wine, soda, tea, coffee and juice poured during dinner
• Program and entertainment featuring special guests and recorded remarks by NBC Today’s Anne Curry

Regular ticket prices (General: $275, VIP: $475) will be available February 21st- April 12th.

For information regarding ticket sales or becoming a Corporate Sponsor,
contact Justine Finn at 571-282-6193 or justine@tahirih.org.

View events in Houston, Texas and in Washington, DC.

Sunday, December 4, 2011
11am – 3pm
The Frog At Home
2427 Westheimer, Houston, TX 77098

20% of all Frog at Home sales (including window fashion and special furniture
orders) will be donated to the Tahirih Justice Center. Refreshments will be provided. Come to win one of our frequent door prizes and giveaways! Click here to view invitation (PDF)

Hosted by Tahirih Advisory Board Members Lynne Averett, Sonia Azad, and Michele Gibbons

 Tuesday, December 6, 2011
10am – 1pm
 6612 Westchester St, Houston, TX 77005

Morgan Shin and Heather Beliveaux invite you to start your morning off with pearls!
Appetizers and beverages will be served. Click here to view invitation (PDF)

RSVP to Morgan at 713-432-7400 or dshin4@comcast.net

 Thursday, December 8, 2011
11am – 2pm
Spring Branch Medical Center
8850 Long Point, Houston, TX 77055

Hosted by Tahirih Advisory Board and Advisory Council of Houston members
Hon. Marty and Parvin McVey

Monday, December 12, 2011
12 – 6pm
Hogan Lovells
Concourse Level Conference Center, Columbia Square
555 Thirteenth St, NW, Washington, DC

Click here to view invitation

Thursday, December 15, 2011
10am – 2pm
Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP
1333 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036

Click here to view invitation

The Tahirih Justice Center protects immigrant women and girls seeking justice in the United States from gender-based violence. Leveraging both in-house and pro bono attorneys, Tahirih empowers clients to achieve justice and equality through holistic direct legal services and national public policy advocacy. Amy Lin’s Pearls will be donating 45% of all sales to the Tahirih Justice Center. All sales are final.

For more information, please contact Justine Finn at justine@tahirih.org or 571-282-6193.

• April 29, 2011: 9 News Now, “Victim Advocates Praise Lara Logan For Speaking Out,” by Peggy Fox
• May 12, 2011: TEDx Conference, “Innovate: Justice,” by Layli Miller Muro (video)
• May 18, 2011: The Dailey Caller, “‘The Office’ star Rainn Wilson coming to DC,”
  by Laura Donovan
• May 26, 2011: Washington Examiner, “Wilson, Winger support Tahirih Benefit,” by Katy Adams and Nikki Schwab
• June 10, 2011: TEDxConference, “Layli Miller-Muro – Post-talk Interview,” by Layli Miller-Muro (video)
• June 19, 2011: Washington Examiner, “Accused abusers now being tracked,” by Emily Babay
• July 31, 2011: Interfaith Radio, “Interview with Layli Miller-Muro” (audio)
• August 9, 2011: Dan Rather Reports, “What Happened Next? Forced Marriage” (watch an excerpt or purchase the whole episode on iTunes)
• August 15, 2011: Roll Call, “Miller-Muro: Protections for Victims of Abuse,” by Layli Miller-Muro
• August 19, 2011: Human Rights Brief – American University, “Interview: Layli Miller-Muro [PDF],” by Elizabeth Francis
• August 30, 2011: Huffington Post, “Child Marriage Is ‘A Major Psychological Trauma,’ New Study Says,” by Catherine Pearson
• September 14, 2011: The Daily Beast, “A Night of Extraordinary Women,” by Liz Goodwin

In Your Community

Upcoming Events: Join Tahirih attorneys and staff in these upcoming outreach and training opportunities!

• September 29—Free Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Training, DLA Piper, Houston, TX. For more information, view the invitation (PDF).
• October 18—CLSS Training on Representing Immigrant Victims of Sexual Violence: Safely Discussing Traumatic, George Mason University, Arlington, VA. For more information, visit Tahirih’s webpage. 
• November 10—Asylum Claims Based on Membership in a Particular Social Group, online webinar. For more information, visit the Immigrant Legal Resource Center website. 
• November 16—Working with Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault within Immigrant Communities, Akin Gump, Washington, DC. For more information, visit Tahirih’s webpage. 
• November 17—Immigration Relief for Victims of Domestic Violence and the Kennedy Amendment, Columbia, MD. Open only to members of the Maryland Legal Aid Society.

Since April 15, 2011, Tahirih has conducted outreach or trainings at the following organizations and events:

• Abraham & Watkins, Houston, TX
• Adelante Familia, Baltimore, MD
• Aggies Monthly Breakfast, Revielle Outreach, Houston, TX
• Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, Washington, DC
• Arnold and Porter LLP, Washington, DC
• DC Bar Advanced Asylum Law Training, Washington, DC
• Department of Homeland Security, USCIS Ombudsman Office, Houston, TX
• Elon University’s Humanitarian Immigration Law Clinic Seminar, Elon, NC
• Fairfax County Dept. of Family Services, Fairfax, VA
• Falls Church Rotary Club, Falls Church, VA
• Florida Coastal Law School, Jacksonville, FL
• Harris County Judicial Education Conference, Houston, TX
• Hogar Immigrant Services, Falls Church, VA
• The Houston Club, Houston, TX
• Houston Volunteer Lawyer’s Program, Houston, TX
• Houston Young Lawyer’s Association, Houston, TX
• Jones Day, Washington, DC
• Kiwanis Club, Falls Church, VA
• Legal Momentum/Vera Institute of Justice, Alexandria, VA
• Milbank Tweed, Washington DC
• National Sexual Assault Conference, Baltimore, MD
• Partners for Justice Conference, Baltimore, MD
• Prince William County Back to School Symposium, Forest Park High School, Woodbridge, VA
• Regional Victim Assistance Training in Portsmouth, VA
• SAFE Inc, Washington, DC
• State Bar of Texas, Immigration Task Force, Houston, TX
• Warrenton Police Department, Warrenton, VA
• Women United for the Advancement of African Countries Conference and Expo, Boston, MA
• The Woodlands, Houston, TX

Protecting Immigrant Women and Girls Fleeing Violence

 Meet Tahirih’s Houston Director, hear stories of tragedy turned to hope, and find out what Houston attorneys are doing to make a difference!*

  Wine & appetizers will be served
Due to Tahirih’s Bahá’í-inspired nature, we do not purchase alcohol.
Wine is generously donated by our sponsors.

 Thursday, June 30, 2011
5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels, Agosto & Friend
800 Commerce Street, Houston, TX 77002

 RSVP: tjcevent@gmail.com
or call 713-358-1751, Jessica Harris of Burleson LLP
*.5 hr. CLE pending

Tahirih thanks our generous supporters:

Sponsors

Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels, Agosto & Friend	Texas Women Lawyers

FosterQuan, LLP

 If you are interested in sponsoring this reception,
please download the Sponsorship Packet (PDF) or contact Grace Young Baechle, Community Relations & Development Officer at grace@tahirih.org.

Tahirih Justice Center

1401 St. Joseph Parkway, Houston, TX 77002

Tel: 713-250-2175, Fax: 713-236-0822
houston@tahirih.org – www.tahirih.org

We would like to give a heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated, attended, volunteered, and contributed to make last Wednesday’s 14^th Annual Fundraising Benefit a wonderful success! This year, we celebrated the “Good Fellas” by recognizing the important role of men in achieving justice for women. See a list of the 2011 Good Fellas.

Many of Tahirih’s Good Fellas were in attendance, including actor and Tahirih supporter Rainn Wilson, who was joined as Master of Ceremonies by actress and Tahirih Board of Directors member Debra Winger; Congressman Jim Moran, who provided remarks; and Jim Sandman, recipient of the Wings of Justice Award for his lifelong career in advocacy and dedication to the promotion of pro bono legal services. Other award recipients included DLA Piper LLP (Law Firm of the Year Award); Megan E. Kaufmann of Hunton & Williams LLP (Pro Bono Attorney of the Year Award); and Dr. Mana Badipour of Westwood Dental (Volunteer Service Award).

Martina Kavanova, a former Tahirih client, shared her moving struggle to escape her violent husband and achieve justice for herself and her two sons through working with the Tahirih Justice Center. Through the donated pro bono services of Daniel Nanasi of Agora Entertainment, we are able to share Martina’s story online with all of our supporters.

We are excited to share photos from the evening, courtesy of Michael Colella, and some local press coverage: “Chatting with Rainn Wilson in DC” (NBC4) and “Wilson, Winger support Tahirih benefit” (Washington Examiner). If you purchased a picture with Rainn Wilson, please know that your photo will be coming in the mail.

If you were at the Benefit, please let us know what you thought! Drop us a line at development@tahirih.org, tweet us at @tahirihjustice, or write on our Facebook wall.

Finally, we would like to thank the following individuals and organizations for their generous pro bono contributions towards the evening’s events. It is thanks to these generously donated services and goods that Tahirih is able to make our annual Benefit such an efficient event.

Jamshid Amini, American Executive Limousine Service
AmyLin’s Pearls and Jewelry
Kent Chadwick
Michael Colella, Colella Photography
Anisa Cott
Curves Fitness Club
Disney World
Elite IPA Security
Embassy of Bahrain
Embassy of Brazil
Embassy of Liechtenstein
Entertainment Cruises Washington, DC
Geoff Doyle, Doyle Productions
Go Ape!
Gregory Fine Portraits
Groupon
Gunny’s Rainbow LLC
JuiceBox Design Communications, Inc.
Marcial de Gomar, Emeralds International
Maryam Flowers
Bahia and Glenford Mitchell
Motaheddeh, Inc.
Gil Miller-Muro
Gilbert Muro
Daniel Nanasi, Agora Entertainment
Jan Pederson
Pineapple Alley Caterers & Mount Airy Mansion
PR at Partners – Reston Town Center
The Moscow Ballet and “The Great Russian Nutcracker”
The Pusateri Family
Sun and Moon Yoga
Sitara Khan, Sitara Khan Photography
Six Flags America
Synetic Theater

 The Tahirih Justice Center would like to extend our deepest appreciation to the following Corporate Sponsors and Benefit Committee members for supporting the Fourteenth Annual Benefit:

2011 TAHIRIH BENEFIT COMMITTEE

Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan and
Sam Waterston,
Honorary Co-Chairs

Jennifer Chapman
Martha Cochran
Juan Carlos Duperier and Laurie Plessala Duperier
Michael Goldberg
Mary Guibert
Frank Kendall and Beth Halpern
Charles and Christine Henck
Doug and Suzanne Henck
Michael MacLeod
Bob McCormick
Joanne Moore
Amy Mudge
Jan Pederson
Tom Mackall and Beth
Roberts
Debra Winger

SPONSORS

Defenders
Chevron
Shell Oil Company

Benefactors
Akin Gump Strauss Hauer and
Feld LLP
Altria Group, Inc.

Patrons
Arnold & Porter LLP
Covington & Burling LLP
DLA Piper LLP
The Estée Lauder Companies
Inc.
Hilton Worldwide

Sponsors
Clifford Chance US LLP
Crowell & Moring LLP
Davis Wright Tremaine LLP
Mayer Brown
Steptoe & Johnson LLP

Friends
American University Washington College of Law
Calvert Asset Management Co., Inc.
Dykema Gossett PLLC
Eileen Fisher
Hogan Lovells
Hunton & Williams LLP
LexisNexis
Maggio & Kattar PC
McNally Interiors, LLC
Sayyed Ali Moazzum Educational Fund, Inc.
Sterne Kessler Goldstein Fox PLLC
Troutman Sanders LLP
Vinson & Elkins LLP
White & Case LLP
Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr LLP

Supporters
George Mason University
RA Abdoo and Company, LLC
Richards Kibbe & Orbe LLP
Seyfarth Shaw LLP
Sidley Austin
Shearman & Sterling LLP
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
Thompson Hine LLP

Contributors
Beach-Oswald, PC
XO Communications

Featuring Masters of Ceremonies
Debra Winger and Rainn Wilson

Wednesday, May 25^th, 2011
6:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Hosted at the elegant Carnegie Institution of Washington 1530 P St NW Washington, DC 20005  Complimentary valet parking provided

Individual Ticket: $275
VIP ticket: $475
Purchase Tickets Online TODAY – ticket sales close tomorrow!

Unable to Join Us?

 Make a direct donation to the Tahirih Justice Center! Give in the name of one of the “Good Fellas” in your life or in honor of Martina Kavanova’s courageous fight for justice.

 For non-profit and student rate tickets, please contact Hedieh Fakhriyazdi, Public Support Associate
at 571.282.6193 or hedieh@tahirih.org

Featuring Tahirih Client Speaker Martina Kavanova

Martina came to the United States from the Czech Republic as an au pair in order to learn English. During her stay, she met and fell in love with a US citizen, who proposed. They moved in together, were married, and had two sons. However, all was not well. Over the course of their twelve-year relationship, Martina’s husband became controlling, aggressive, and emotionally, physically, and sexually abusive. Though she worried about her illegal presence in the United States and asked her husband repeatedly to file for her legal status, he never filed Martina’s immigration papers, telling her that as long as she did whatever he said, she had nothing to worry about.

Finally, despite his threats and controlling behavior, Martina called the police and obtained a protective order against her husband for herself and their two sons. She was referred to the Tahirih Justice Center, which worked with her intensively for six months to help her successfully file a petition for the immigration status her husband had refused to grant her.

Today, Martina owns her “dream home,” a small house that she shares with her two boys and life
partner. She enjoys her work in the food and beverage industry. Thanks in part to Tahirih’s support and in whole to her own courage, strength, and perseverance, Martina has found freedom and happiness in life. She looks forward to supporting Tahirih’s work by sharing her personal tale of overcoming obstacles to achieve justice with the Tahirih Justice Center.

Please Visit our Silent Auction!

 If you are unable to participate in the Silent Auction on the night of the Benefit, please check out our Online Silent Auction and bid on one of the exciting items highlighted below!

Limited time left to bid on these items!

Host an Event to Make History (One day’s use of the historic Mount Airy Mansion)

Looking for an idyllic back drop for your upcoming wedding, family reunion, or blow-out bash? Look no further! Become a part of Mount Airy’s history with your own event in this gorgeous setting.

Bid on this item on eBay NOW!

This Is the Real Doggie Paddle (Six one-hour therapeutic canine swim sessions at Gunny’s Rainbow) 

Is your dog elderly, arthritic, or just looking for a new way to exercise? Bring him to Gunny’s Rainbow, LLC in Bethesda for private indoor swim sessions in a state-of-the-art warm water pool.

Bid on this item on eBay NOW!

In the Lap of Luxury (Two
night weekend stay for two at Ink48 in a King Deluxe room)

There’s nowhere like New York City. But Ink48, a Kimpton Hotel, makes a statement as distinctive as the city itself. Bring a guest to enjoy a two night weekend stay and indulge in this one-of-a-kind soaring urban retreat featuring open-air gardens and panoramic city and Hudson River views.

Bid on this item on eBay now!

Leave Your Mark (18k Dilmun Seal Necklace)

Leave your mark on anyone’s memory with this gorgeous necklace bearing a pendant with the Dilmun seal of Bahrain. Recreated here in stunning 18k gold and strung on a slim, flexible gold chain, this Dilmun seal bears the head of an ox and a patterned outer border.

Bid on this item on eBay now!

Bid on these new items today!

Dine in Liechtenstein (Dinner for six at Ambassador’s Residence of Liechtenstein)

Cross international borders and dine with Her Excellency Ambassador of the Principality of Liechtenstein to the United States, at the Ambassador’s residence in Washington, DC.

Bid on this item on eBay now!

 Run Away for Awhile (four nights in three bedroom Myrtle Beach penthouse condo)

Daily grind getting you down? Time to get away! And how better than with four nights at this oceanfront three bedroom penthouse at Dunes Village resort hotel in Myrtle Beach?

Bid on this item on eBay now!

Sitting Pretty (Gregory Fine Portrait session)

You look absolutely gorgeous, and your family is charming! Celebrate this moment in time with a Fine Portrait Session with Mark Gregory, including an initial consultation, a weekday portrait sitting in your home or preferred outdoor location, a selection appointment, AND a classic 11×14 fine art photographic print!

Bid on this item on eBay now!

We’ve highlighted some of the many wonderful items available only at Tahirih’s Silent Auction, held at the Fourteenth Annual Benefit on May 25:

Go Ape! (4 Gorilla tickets to Go Ape Treetop Adventure): Channel your inner Tarzan with these passes to a day of adventure at Go Ape’s highly interactive treetop adventure course.

Let’s Get Physical (Curves one-year gym membership): Work up a sweat, whip yourself into shape, or lose some extra weight with this one year full access pass to Curves’ Falls Church, VA location!

One Hot Pot (blue and white Motahaddeh cachepot): Cachepots are traditionally used for cut or potted flowers, but this beautifully patterned piece is strong enough to display alone.

Rise and Shine! (10 classes at Sun and Moon Yoga): Breathe deep, stretch your body, and balance your mind at Sun and Moon Yoga, three locations in Northern Virginia. Classes for kids, too!

Angles and Curves (Paulo Mendes da Rocha: Fifty Years 1957-2007 and Oscar Niemeyer: Curves of Irreverence, coffee table books on Brazilian architects): Da Rocha created architecture with a sense of responsibility not only to the buildings’ inhabitants, but to a larger society; Niemeyer was inspired by the “free and sensual curve” he saw in mountains, rivers, and women. Compare their work with two gorgeous coffee table books.

Win Free Money! ($100 Groupon gift certificate): $100 of credit to spend on any of Groupon’s daily deals, including restaurants, spas, local theatre and activities, and more!

Emerald Rains of Justice (emerald earrings): Marcial de Gomar’s tagline is true—these emeralds would make even the best diamonds “green with envy.” Named the “Emerald Rains of Justice” in Tahirih’s honor, these stunning drops feature eight naturally brilliant Colombian emeralds accented with six sparkling diamonds, all set in 18K yellow and white gold.

Candles on the Water (Dinner Cruise for Two on the Spirit): This “night out on the town” is actually on the water! Cruise with beautiful views of DC’s sights, enjoy singing wait staff, and get down to DJs playing Top 40 hits.

“Pathway to Glory” (painting by Olethe DeVane): This show-stopping painting depicts the dwelling where Bahá’u’lláh, founder of the Bahá’í faith, was born. The strong monochrome color scheme, focus on the central, lighted doorway, and textural, patterned imagery make this beautiful piece visually complex. Its passionate spiritual inspiration give it an incredible depth and energy.

Raffle Package:

DMV Adventure Package: No, not the Department of Motor Vehicles—though if that’s the last place you’ve been to in the DC/Maryland/Virginia region, you need to win this raffle! If you’re stuck in a rut, going out to the same old places for family outings, romantic dates, or friends-only getaways, then this package is for you! Explore something new with gift certificates and free passes to delicious eateries and unique experiences in the DC/Maryland/Virginia region.

Purchase Tickets Online TODAY to attend our silent auction & raffle!

AmyLin Pearls & Jewelry On Sale

Shop Amy Lin’s incredible collection of pearl jewelry to support the Tahirih Justice Center! Amy Lin, a renowned pearl dealer based in Shanghai, has offered a portion of her amazing collection at discounted prices in support of the Tahirih Justice Center and will donate 45 percent of sales to Tahirih.

A wide selection of Amy Lin’s unique pieces will be for sale during the reception.

Thank You to Our 2011 Sponsors:

2011 TAHIRIH BENEFIT SPONSORS

Defenders
Chevron
Shell Oil Company

Benefactors
Akin Gump Strauss Hauer and
Feld LLP
Altria Group, Inc.

Patrons
Arnold & Porter LLP
Covington & Burling LLP
DLA Piper LLP
The Estée Lauder Companies
Inc.
Hilton Worldwide

Sponsors
Clifford Chance US LLP
Crowell & Moring LLP
Davis Wright Tremaine LLP
Mayer Brown
Steptoe & Johnson LLP

Friends
American University Washington College of Law
Calvert Asset Management Co., Inc.
Dykema Gossett PLLC
Eileen Fisher
Hogan Lovells
Hunton & Williams LLP
LexisNexis
Maggio & Kattar PC
McNally Interiors, LLC
Sayyed Ali Moazzum Educational Fund, Inc.
Sterne Kessler Goldstein Fox PLLC
Troutman Sanders LLP
Vinson & Elkins LLP
White & Case LLP
Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr LLP

Supporters
George Mason University
RA Abdoo and Company, LLC
Richards Kibbe & Orbe LLP
Seyfarth Shaw LLP
Sidley Austin
Shearman & Sterling LLP
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP

Contributors
Beach-Oswald, PC
XO Communications

2011 TAHIRIH BENEFIT COMMITTEE

Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan and
Sam Waterston,
Honorary Co-Chairs

Jennifer Chapman
Martha Cochran
Juan Carlos Duperier and Laurie Plessala Duperier
Michael Goldberg
Mary Guibert
Frank Kendall and Beth Halpern
Charles and Christine Henck
Doug and Suzanne Henck
Michael MacLeod
Bob McCormick
Joanne Moore
Amy Mudge
Jan Pederson
Tom Mackall and Beth Roberts
Debra Winger

2011 HONORARY CO-CHAIRS

United States Senate
Senator Benjamin L. Cardin
Senator Robert P. Casey, Jr.
Senator Tom Coburn, MD
Senator Mike Crapo
Senator Kay Hagan
Senator Daniel K. Inouye
Senator Tim Johnson
Senator Patrick Leahy
Senator Joe Lieberman
Senator Barbara Mikulski
Senator Lisa Murkowski
Senator Patty Murray
Senator James E. Risch
Senator Jeanne Shaheen
Senator Mark Udall
Senator Jim Webb

United States House of Representatives
Congresswoman Shelley Berkley
Congresswoman Judy Biggert
Congresswoman Corrine Brown
Congressman William Lacy Clay, Jr.
Congressman Gerald E. Connolly
Congressman John Conyers, Jr.
Congressman Joseph Crowley
Congressman Elijah E. Cummings
Congressman Lloyd Doggett
Congressman Mike Doyle
Congresswoman Donna Edwards
Congresswoman Anna G. Eshoo
Congressman Chaka Fattah
Congressman Michael Fitzpatrick
Congresswoman Virginia Foxx
Congressman Scott Garrett
Congresswoman Kay Granger
Congressman Gene Green
Congressman Luis V. Gutierrez
Congressman Mike Honda
Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr.
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee
Congressman Tom Latham
Congressman Steven C. LaTourette
Congresswoman Barbara Lee
Congressman John Lewis
Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren
Congressman Stephen F. Lynch
Congresswoman Doris Matsui
Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy
Congresswoman Betty McCollum
Congressman Jim Moran
Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton
Congressman Ed Pastor
Congressman Tom Petri
Congressman Joe Pitts
Congressman Jared Polis
Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard
Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez
Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky
Congressman Adam Schiff
Congresswoman Jean Schmidt
Congresswoman Louise Slaughter
Congressman Pete Stark
Congresswoman Betty Sutton
Congressman Bennie Thompson
Congressman Paul D. Tonko
Congressman Chris Van Hollen
Congresswoman Maxine Waters

I am so honored to share with you that I will be speaking about Tahirih’s innovative work through a TEDx talk tomorrow at TEDx Grand Rapids! This event invites leading thinkers and doers to participate in an inspiring day of thought-provoking presentations, performances and conversations. TED is a widely known nonprofit dedicated to Ideas Worth Sharing, and this event will be attended by over 600 in person and many more who will view the talks online. I am at once humbled and excited by this wonderful opportunity to share Tahirih’s efforts to protect women and girls fleeing violence with such a wide audience. Please join me by watching the livestream of my talk “INNOVATE: JUSTICE” tomorrow at 12:15pm EST!

I am also writing to encourage you to join us at Tahirih’s Fourteenth Annual Fundraising Benefit on May 25^th at the Carnegie Institution of Washington! Ticket sales have been extended through Wednesday, May 18. The Benefit offers a wonderful and unique opportunity to celebrate the courage and resilience of the women and girls Tahirih serves.

If you are unable to attend the Benefit, please don’t miss the chance to bid on the exciting items in Tahirih’s new Online Silent Auction. Scroll down to see which items we’ve just added—and which you need to bid on NOW before time is up! For a preview of other great items and packages that will be available exclusively to attendees of our Fourteenth Annual Fundraising Benefit, please see below.

Please share this message with your friends, and remember to bid generously! All our items have been donated by generous supporters, so 100% of all sales go directly to the Tahirih Justice Center.

Warm regards,

Layli Miller-Muro
Executive Director

Your Ticket to Fun (Four 1-Day Walt Disney World Park Hopper Passes)

Limited time left to bid on this item!

Looking for an adventure? Look no further than one of the most magical places on Earth! These four one-day passes can be used in any combination—for a one-day family fun trip for four, a two-day romantic getaway for a couple, or a four-day solo safari through the many experiences Disney has to offer.

Bid on this item on eBay NOW!

Pearls for Women and Girls (Amylin Pearl Necklace)

Limited time left to bid on this item!

 This natural gray and black Tahitian pearl necklace with 18k white gold clasp is a timeless, one-of-a-kind beauty. The uniquely tear-shaped pearls are strung on a single 17inch strand. Each cultured pearl is a slightly different shade of gray, ranging from nearly white to almost black, and each bears the same incredible luster, creating an overall effect of iridescent silver. Flattering on any skin tone and with almost any outfit, this necklace is destined to become a wardrobe staple.

Bid on this item on eBay NOW!

Host an Event to Make History (One day’s use of the historic Mount Airy Mansion)

Available online NOW!

Looking for an idyllic back drop for your upcoming wedding, family reunion, or blow-out bash? Look no further! Located in Upper Marlboro’s scenic hunt country, the beautiful Mount Airy Mansion is nestled on 1,000 acres of wooded grounds in southern Maryland. The historic building virtually hums with history—originally built in the seventeenth century as a hunting lodge for the Third Lord Baltimore, the Mansion has since seen seven presidents, weddings, births, deaths, and parties from the intimate to the epic. Become a part of Mount Airy’s history with your own event in this gorgeous setting. For more information visit http://www.mountairymansion.org/.

Bid on this item on eBay NOW!

This Is the Real Doggie Paddle (Six one-hour therapeutic canine swim sessions at Gunny’s Rainbow)

Available online NOW!

Is your dog elderly, arthritic, or just looking for a new way to exercise? Bring him to Gunny’s Rainbow, LLC in Bethesda for private indoor swim sessions in a state-of-the-art warm water pool. But Gunny’s Rainbow is more than just a pool—it’s a “dog spa” where you and your dog go to laugh and rejuvenate, and to enjoy the tranquility and peace of the pool room. For more information visit http://www.gunnysrainbow.com/index.html. 

Bid on this item on eBay NOW!

In the Lap of Luxury (Two night weekend stay for two at Ink48 in a King Deluxe room):

Available online NOW!

There’s nowhere like New York City. But Ink48, a Kimpton Hotel, makes a statement as distinctive as the city itself. Bring a guest to enjoy a two night weekend stay and indulge in this one-of-a-kind soaring urban retreat of rejuvenation and revelation featuring open-air gardens and panoramic city and Hudson River views. Highlighting the dynamic signature of Hell’s Kitchen, this luxury boutique hotel fuels the spirit and soul, inspires self-discovery, and celebrates the complex beauty of expression. Your 275 square foot King Deluxe room will embrace unobstructed city views of the North or East, and includes an iHome, Etro spa-inspired bath amenities, luxurious shower and terry cloth animal print robes—just to name a few of its plush amenities. If you feel the
need to leave your room, you can visit the Ink Spa, an urban oasis of renewal with tailored treatments created especially for each individual client, or one of the two beautiful destination restaurants on-site. Good for a two night weekend stay for two guests. Valid through February 1, 2012.

Bid on this item on eBay now!

Leave Your Mark (18k Dilmun Seal Necklace)

Available online NOW!

Leave your mark on anyone’s memory with this gorgeous 18k gold necklace bearing a pendant with the Dilmun seal. Used when Bahrain was known as “Dilmun” and the land was a major trading partner on the route to the east, seals were used to leave a mark as unique and recognizable as a signature. These little round stamps have been found as far as the Indus Valley in Pakistan and in the ancient cities of Iraq, as well as in tombs in Bahrain. Recreated here in stunning 18k gold and strung on a slim, flexible gold chain, this Dilmun seal bears the head of an ox and a patterned outer border. Generously donated by Her Excellency Houda Nonoo, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Bid on this item on eBay now!

Dine in Liechtenstein (Dinner for six at Ambassador’s Residence of Liechtenstein)

Available online soon!

Cross international borders and dine with Her Excellency Ambassador of the Principality of Liechtenstein to the United States, at the Ambassador’s residence in Washington, DC. Prepare your questions about the principality’s royal family, known as the Princely House, or use the dinner as a chance to learn more about this internationally networked small state open to the world. For example, did you know that Liechtenstein is one of only two doubly landlocked countries in the world? Or that the country participates in a customs union with Switzerland and uses the Swiss franc as its national currency? Get some quick background at https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ls.html. Available online soon!

Run Away for Awhile (four nights in three bedroom Myrtle Beach penthouse condo)

Available online soon!

Daily grind getting you down? Time to get away! And how better than with four nights at this oceanfront three bedroom penthouse at Dunes Village resort hotel in Myrtle Beach? Get up early to watch the sunrise while sipping your coffee—if you think it’s too chilly to sit on the beach and watch for dolphins, do it from the comfort of the suite’s living room or master bedroom’s panoramic balcony! With three bedrooms hosting one king and two queen sized beds, each with their own full bathroom, plus a sofa bed in the living room, you’ve got the flexibility to host the whole family—or leave the kids at home for a girls’ weekend out or take advantage of the golf concierge during a bachelor retreat! Lay back and relax in a luxurious Jacuzzi tub, cook dinner in the full kitchen with granite counter tops, and feel free to use the in-suite washer and dryer to take care of any dirty laundry. You’ll certainly have some wet swim suits after you make use of the extensive and elaborate indoor swim park. Available online soon!

Sitting Pretty (Gregory Fine Portrait session)

Available online soon!

You look absolutely gorgeous, and your family is charming! Celebrate this moment in time with a Fine Portrait Session with Mark Gregory, including an initial consultation, a weekday portrait sitting in your home or preferred outdoor location, a selection appointment, AND a classic 11×14 fine art photographic print! Mark Gregory’s fine family or personal portraits are personal works of art, as well as beautiful and timeless keepsakes perfect to display prominently in your own home or to gift to a dearly loved family member or friend.

Package includes: initial in-home design and planning consultation; weekday portrait sitting at your home or preferred outdoor location; in-home selection appointment to review and choose favorite images; delivery of finished portraits; and the production of one classic 11×14 fine art photographic portrait.

Alternate option: should the winner prefer, the full $1,200 value of the certificate may be applied toward a wall décor portrait, in place of the above. Available online soon!

Available Exclusively at Tahirih’s Fourteenth Annual Fundraising Benefit:

Silent Auction items:

Go Ape! (4 Gorilla tickets to Go Ape Treetop Adventure): Channel your inner Tarzan with these passes to a day of adventure at Go Ape’s highly interactive treetop adventure.

Let’s Get Physical (Curves one-year gym membership): Work up a sweat, whip yourself into shape, or lose some extra weight with this one year full access pass to Curves’ Falls Church, VA location!

One Hot Pot (blue and white Motahaddeh cachepot): Cachepots are traditionally used for cut or potted flowers, but this beautifully patterned piece is strong enough to display alone.

Rise and Shine! (10 classes at Sun Moon Yoga): Breathe deep, stretch your body, and balance your mind at Sun Moon Yoga, three locations in Northern Virginia. Classes for kids, too!

Angles and Curves (Paulo Mendes da Rocha: Fifty Years 1957-2007 and strong>Oscar Niemeyer: Curves of Irreverence, coffee table books on Brazilian architects): Da Rocha created architecture with a sense of responsibility not only to the buildings inhabitants, but to a larger society; Niemeyer was inspired by the “free and sensual curve” he saw in mountains, rivers, and women. Compare their work with two gorgeous coffee table books.

Win Free Money! ($100 Groupon gift certificate): $100 of credit to spend on any of Groupon’s daily deals, including restaurants, spas, local theatre and activities, and more!

Raffle Package:

DMV Adventure Package

No, not the Department of Motor Vehicles—though if that’s the last place you’ve been to in the DC/Maryland/Virginia region, you need to win this raffle! If you’re stuck in a rut, going out to the same old places for family outings, romantic dates, or friends-only getaways, then this package is for you! Explore something new with gift certificates and free passes to delicious eateries and unique experiences in the DC/Maryland/Virginia region. View map of adventures.

Package includes:

• $100 gift certificate for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch at Rivers at the Watergate Restaurant, where you will enjoy deliciously classic American fare in a contemporary setting with spectacular views of the Kennedy Center. Expires December 31, 2011.
• Two passes to a 40-minute Narrated Cruise of the Annapolis Harbor and US Naval Academy aboard the Harbor Queen on Watermark Cruises. Expires September 30, 2011, weather permitting.
• $150 gift certificate to Busboys and Poets, a restaurant, bookstore, fair trade market, and gathering place where people can come and exchange ideas over a great meal. Two locations in DC and one in Arlington.
• Free pass to the Meadows Farms Golf Course, home of the longest hole in the United States. Good for one round of golf and use of a cart for one person only. Includes $20 gift card to Meadows Farms, redeemable at Meadows Farms Golf Course, Nursery, or Landscaping. Golf Course located in Locust Grove, VA.
• Two passes for two persons to the Alexandria – National Harbor Water Taxi,
  a 25-minute trip operating daily by the Potomac Riverboat Company between the charming historic seaport of Old Town Alexandria, VA and the 300-acre waterfront destination National Harbor, MD. Expire December 31, 2011.
• Two tickets to see Don Quixote at Synetic Theatre in Arlington, VA, June 2-July 3, 2011. Enjoy a journey through Quixote’s dreaming mind as he moons over the heedless Dulcinea, journeys across the Spanish countryside, and (of course) tilts at windmills.

Tahirih was thrilled by the robust turnout, and would like to express our gratitude to Academy-award nominated actress and Tahirih Board Member Debra Winger, who was a delightful emcee for the evening’s program. We were excited to welcome three distinguished Members of Congress—Congressman John Conyers, Congressman Jim Moran and Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee—who gave impassioned and inspiring remarks. The words of our allies in Congress reminded us that by working together, we can make a real and tangible difference in the lives of women and girls—protecting them from violence and providing them with a chance for a peaceful future.

Tahirih is grateful also to Arnold & Porter, LLP; Fragomen, Del Ray, Bernsen, & Loewy, LLP; and Jones Day for generously sponsoring the event, which was held in an elegant reception space at Jones Day with stunning views of the Capitol. We also wish to thank Michael J. Colella for donating his photography services (view full gallery of reception photos online) and Celadon Spa and Salon for donating a gift basket as a door prize.

Tahirih’s Public Policy Council includes public policy professionals and others who leverage their resources, insights and expertise, and provide financial support, to advance Tahirih’s innovative advocacy initiatives. Founding Council Co-Chairs are: Sara Glenn, Director, Federal Government Relations, Shell Oil Company; Randa Fahmy Hudome, President, Fahmy Hudome International; Fern O’Brian, Partner, Thompson Hine LLP; and Marti Thomas, Vice President, The Duberstein Group. Tahirih convenes periodic Council briefings to share our advocacy efforts with Council members; the next briefing will take place in July and will focus on Tahirih’s groundbreaking national survey into the problem of “forced marriage” in the United States (read more about forced marriage in this newsletter). To learn more, please contact policy@tahirih.org.

Photo Gallery

Click on thumbnails to enlarge. Hover mouse over photos for descriptions.

*Photos courtesy of colellaphoto.com. View full gallery of reception photos online.

Academy Award nominated actress and Tahirih Board member Debra Winger and Rainn Wilson, Tahirih advocate and actor of the critically acclaimed television series “The Office,” will serve as Masters of Ceremonies for the evening’s program. Her Majesty Queen Noor of Jordan and actor Sam Waterston of the critically acclaimed NBC television show “Law & Order” will serve as Honorary Co-Chairs of our Annual Benefit Committee. Over 15 of Tahirih’s greatest advocates and donors will join them as members of the committee. See a full list of Benefit Committee members. The Tahirih Justice Center is also happy to announce that Congressman Jim Moran will attend the evening and share remarks.

Tahirih will present four awards to those who have shown an extraordinary commitment over the years to furthering Tahirih’s mission and to ending violence against women. Award recipients for the evening will include DLA Piper, Law Firm of the Year; Megan E. Kaufmann of Hunton & Williams, Pro Bono Attorney of the Year; Dr. Mana Badipour, Volunteer Service Award; and Jim Sandman, President of the Legal Services Corporation, who will accept the Wings of Justice Award for his lifelong career in advocacy and promoting pro bono legal services.

Former Tahirih client, Martina Kavanova, of the Czech Republic, will also share her personal story of escaping abuse and seeking justice for herself and her family in the United States. The evening will include a reception hour, silent auction, AmyLin’s Pearls and Jewelry sales, as well as a seated program.

Wednesday, May 25th, 2011
6:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Carnegie Institution of Washington
1530 P St NW
Washington, DC 20005

Reception and
Silent Auction | 6:00PM

Program | 7:30PM

Dessert reception to follow evening’s program

Individual Ticket: $275
Purchase Tickets

For more information on Tahirih’s Fourteenth Annual Benefit please contact Hedieh Fakhriyazdi, Public Support Associate, at hedieh@tahirih.org.

The Tahirih Justice Center would like to extend our deepest appreciation to the following corporate sponsors for supporting the Fourteenth Annual Benefit:

Learn more about Corporate Sponsorship on our website or contact Hedieh Fakhriyazdi, Public Support Associate, at hedieh@tahirih.org.