Policy Advocacy
Supporting one survivor at a time is not enough. By working at both the systemic and individual levels, we seek to have a truly transformative impact on our justice system.
We seek to amplify the experiences of survivors and pursue systemic change with nonpartisan federal, state, and local policy advocacy, strategic thought leadership, and impact litigation that supports survivors.
-
administrative advocacy
We engage with the White House and federal agencies to pursue policies that address gender-based violence and ensure they are fully and appropriately implemented.
-
legislative action
We advance bills that would improve protections for immigrant survivors and defend against measures that would diminish their ability to live in safety and dignity.
-
impact litigation
We change the law through strategic use of the courts in partnership with colleague organizations and law firms working on a pro bono basis.
-
media engagement
We inform public debate on immigration and gender-based violence and elevate policymakers’ understanding through online, print, radio, and television news sources.
-
movement building
We identify and mobilize a broad base of allies to fight for the safety of immigrant survivors through education, outreach, and public engagement.
-
coalition leadership
We connect, consult, and collaborate with advocates from around the country to ensure that diverse and marginalized voices are taken into account by law makers.
informed advocacy
We analyze trends in the experiences of immigrant survivors through our direct services, training, and education programs. With this data, we are able to identify the gaps in public policy that impact their safety and dignity. Then, we apply our unique, bridge-building approach to advocate for systemic change.
strengths in our approach
- non-partisan
- collaborative
- experienced
- strategic
- innovative
- survivor-informed
focus areas
Immigrant survivors in the United States are among the most vulnerable to abuse and exploitation because of language barriers, fear of deportation, and lack of work authorization. Aspects of our immigration system that are inefficient, under-resourced, unfair, or ill-managed compound this vulnerability, and gaps in the justice system leave many victims trapped and without safe options. We work to change these systemic factors through advocacy in our policy focus areas.
72%
of abusive partners fail to give their spouses legal immigration status in the United States as a tool of control
1 out of 5
battered immigrant women cite fear of immigration consequences as a reason for staying with an abuser
5
years many immigrant women and girls will wait for a hearing in U.S. immigration court due to pervasive backlogs
POLICY NEWS
-
Ableism in Immigration: Challenges for Disabled Survivors of Gender-Based Violence
December 3, 2024 -
Not a ‘Groom,’ but ‘Grooming’: It’s Past Time to End Child Marriage in the United States
November 8, 2024 -
How Child Marriage Survivor Naila Amin Plans to End the Practice in the U.S.
October 22, 2024
