Dear Friend,
These last 12 weeks on sabbatical have given me the opportunity to reflect on why my grandfather gave his life for my people to escape Laos and how our communities must come together to combat the injustice that continues to permeate within our country.
It is unconscionable that our government would detain and deport community members to countries that our families fled, and yet, 17,000 SEAAs still face the threat of deportation. As we approach the 50th anniversary of Southeast Asian refugee resettlement in the United States, and as we prepare for an incoming administration that has made violence against immigrant and refugee communities the centerpiece of their platform, SEARAC remains committed to ending hateful and harmful policies by leading with community-centered solutions, such as the Southeast Asian Deportation Relief Act (SEADRA).
Will you join me in making a gift to SEARAC to ensure that Southeast Asian American communities remain whole? These funds are necessary to ensure that we can provide on-the-ground support to families while also pressuring policymakers at the state level to pass immigrant-friendly policies and grant pardons to our neighbors facing deportation.
Much like the powerful, beautiful illustration that artist Timothy Singratsomboune created for us, SEARAC and our communities protect each other. Timothy’s design makes use of SEAA cultural elements like the Lao khantoke, and the circular composition is a throwback to Southeast Asian product labels and amulets. You can learn more about Timothy on his website or by reading our interview with him here.
Thank you everyone who has donated so far and to all of the artists who contributed to our end-of-year fundraiser. We are grateful for your support of Southeast Asian American community power and that you are a part of our vital work to support our community’s right to family. Join us in this movement by making a donation today.
Kham S. Moua
National Deputy Director
SEARAC