Dear John,

Over the past four years, new asylum restrictions have left countless refugees
and asylum seekers unable to find safety within our borders.

When Lina* fled political persecution in Cuba, this was her experience. Despite
being eight months pregnant with a child who had a life-threatening congenital
heart defect, Lina had to wait in Matamoros, Mexico, just across the border from
Brownsville, Texas, to seek asylum. Lina needed to give birth in the United
States for her baby to survive. A HIAS Border Fellow helped her file a
humanitarian appeal, but border authorities rejected it.

Through a medical organization operating in Matamoros, Lina’s story made its way
onto social media, generating a public outcry that reached Congress. As a
result, Lina was finally given an opportunity to present her case in person to
the officials at the port of entry, and her story convinced them to allow her
across the border. Thousands of others — including Lina’s husband — have not
been as lucky.

HIAS has four offices along the U.S.-Mexico border where we are working to give
asylum seekers like Lina legal representation and mental health support as they
flee unimaginable circumstances. But as her experience makes clear, we also need
a structural overhaul of the asylum system. That’s why our fight to reverse
asylum restrictions is so important, and why we’re asking for your support
today:

John, will you make a contribution of $18
or more — anything you can spare — to help refugees and asylum seekers build new
lives free from danger and persecution?
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As asylum seekers are turned away by the thousands, HIAS is on the front lines
helping people understand their rights and navigate the complex asylum system.
We’re also providing services for those facing gender-based violence, or in need
of mental health support.

At HIAS we are optimistic about the possibility of safely welcoming asylum
seekers fleeing persecution. But even with a new administration in the White
House that supports humane policies, we expect to face significant resistance,
which is why we’re also advocating for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers
in Washington.

HIAS will continue supporting refugees and asylum seekers — no matter what
challenges they may face. But this work isn’t possible without your backing, so
we’re hoping you’ll make a donation at this pivotal moment to provide support
and advocacy for those in need:

Please, John, make a contribution of $18 or
more right now to help asylum seekers and refugees at our border and around the
world in their journey toward safety and freedom.
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Thank you so much,



Sue Kenney-Pfalzer
Director, HIAS Border & Asylum Network

*Pseudonym used for the client’s safety.

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