An Asylum Seeker in Limbo

by CAIR Coalition Staff

Yaya is an asylum seeker from Africa, whose story is a testament to the passion and commitment of pro bono attorneys and the inequities of how asylum seekers are treated while immigration courts are considering their case.

Yaya is seeking asylum in the United States.  If he were to return to his home country, Yaya would face persecution, torture, and possible death.

While the United States is committed to helping asylum seekers, the process for securing asylum can be painfully lengthy.  Yaya’s first hearing in front of a judge is not scheduled until 2019.  Until then, he is stuck in limbo – not documented and not an asylee.  This state of limbo means that he has no access to benefits or social support where he lives.  A commitment to a fair process to determine asylum status, and the greater commitment to protect those who face death and torture abroad, should not include a crucible of poverty.

Yaya is, right now, facing such poverty.  He cannot pay rent for him and his wife, cannot afford the fees to reapply for work authorization, frequently goes hungry, and cannot afford medication.

Yaya, however, is blessed to have two pro bono attorneys who recognize and want to help him and his wife through this troubling time.  Recognizing that the ethical rules of most jurisdictions do not allow attorneys to gift money to clients, the attorneys have established a Gofundme fundraiser to help the family get back on their feet.  This pro bono team has gone above and beyond expectations of any pro bono attorney in helping their client pay for rent and food.  This is a wonderful example of the deep connections that pro bono attorneys have with their clients.

To help Yaya and his wife, visit:  https://www.gofundme.com/xpkxvqyc
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