News
One Year of Impact and Resilience
Over the past year, immigrant families have been forced to move through the world more carefully. Not by choice, but by design.
USCIS Policy Changes Threaten VAWA Survivor Protections
Ayuda raises concern over recent USCIS Policy Manual revisions affecting VAWA self-petitioners. The changes risk imposing rigid evidentiary standards that fail to account for the realities of abuse and trauma, increasing the likelihood of unjust denials. Ayuda calls on USCIS to reconsider the guidance to ensure survivor safety remains paramount.
Ayuda Statement on the Tragic Death Caused by ICE in Minneapolis
Ayuda condemns the killing of a woman during an ICE enforcement operation in Minneapolis on January 7 and calls for a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the use of deadly force. This tragic event underscores the lasting harm caused by aggressive immigration enforcement, which erodes trust and fuels fear rather than creating safety. Ayuda remains committed to advancing the rights, dignity, and safety of immigrant communities in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
Ayuda Applauds Council Leadership on Immigrant Safety, Supports Strengthening Protections
Ayuda applauds the introduction of the Safe Community Places and Policing Amendment Act, calling it a critical step toward ending harmful policing practices and protecting Black, Brown, and immigrant communities in D.C.
“Lives Are on the Line”: Ayuda’s Testimony to the DC Council
On December 3, Ayuda staff testified before the DC Council Committee on Health during its Budget Oversight hearing, urging Council Members to reverse harmful cuts to the DC Healthcare Alliance program. Grounded in decades of service and the lived experiences of their clients, Ayuda’s testimony made clear that these cuts are not abstract budget decisions, but they are choices with life-threatening consequences for immigrant residents across the District.
Violence Has No Place Here — Neither Does Islamophobia
Ayuda mourns the National Guard service member killed in D.C. and condemns nationality-based immigration punishments that fuel Islamophobia and harm Afghan families.
Ayuda Calls on Councilmember Pinto to Hold a Public Hearing on MPD’s Cooperation with Federal Agencies
A public hearing is critical to provide clarity and accountability on MPD’s coordination with federal immigration agencies and to ensure protection of civil liberties and compliance with the Sanctuary Values Amendment.
Where Compassion Meets Action: Celebrating Pro Bono Week at Ayuda
Pro Bono Week takes place October 19-25, 2025. Every year, Pro Bono Week reminds us of a simple but powerful truth: access to justice should never depend on one’s ability to pay. At Ayuda, we see this truth in action every day through the dedication, heart, and...
Honoring the Legacy of Luis Eduardo Rumbaut, Ayudante (1949-2025)
Ayuda reflects on the legacy and contributions of former Executive Director, Luis Rumbaut.
The Impact of Your Support in 2025 – a Mid-year Update
Celebrating the impact of your support in 2025 (so far!).
Ninth Circuit Stay on TPS Protections Will Harm Thousands of Immigrants
Ayuda serves TPS recipients throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia and knows firsthand how these terminations threaten community stability and well-being.
Ayuda Condemns Federal Seizure of D.C. Police and National Guard Deployment
Ayuda is deeply concerned about the disproportionate harm this action could cause to D.C.’s vibrant immigrant communities
Ayuda Statement on the Termination of Temporary Protected Status for Multiple Countries
Ayuda serves TPS recipients throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia and knows firsthand how these terminations threaten community stability and well-being.
Ayuda Condemns Gov. Youngkin’s Plan to Support ICE by Deploying National Guard
The approved FY2026 D.C. budget cuts funding for the D.C. Healthcare Alliance Program, meaning that 28,000 immigrants and low-income residents will lose the healthcare they depend on by 2027.
Job-Readiness Training Opens New Doors for Immigrant Survivors of Human Trafficking
For survivors of human trafficking, escaping their abuse is just the beginning of the road to recovery. Immigrant survivors of human trafficking in particular face barriers to rebuilding their lives. Consider that a Polaris Study found that after exit, 75 percent of...