Dear SEARAC Supporter,
I am the granddaughter of refugees who came to the United States fleeing the Cambodian genocide. My grandparents gave up everything so that future generations of our family could survive and thrive. When my grandfather came home from voting for the first time, he was so excited about participating in the democratic process.
He taught me to value my family, their laughter and love, and the opportunities we have in this new country. My grandparents fought for our survival, and I carry on their legacy by fighting for a better future for my community: one that is free from the fear of being kidnapped by ICE and torn from our families.
Photo courtesy of Minh Pham, PSK Creative.
As SEARAC’s Communications Intern, I had the chance to witness firsthand how SEARAC is working to advance legislation that protects Southeast Asian Americans (SEAAs) from deportation, sharing resources with impacted individuals and families, and building power with refugee and immigrant communities. I was proud to share the message that immigration is an Asian American issue and that we all must work together, in solidarity, to protect our community’s right to family.
It is unconscionable that SEAAs are now being deported from the place we have called home for the past 50 years – in some cases to third countries with little access to lawyers or family members. But together, SEARAC and our community members are fighting back. Join us this Giving Tuesday to keep SEAA communities safe.
Donate to SEARAC today to help us reach our goal of raising $50,000 by the end of the year to keep our families together.
Sincerely,
Janessa Reyes
Communications Intern
SEARAC
