Our Liberation Advocacy efforts focus on assisting and supporting asylees and others seeking immigration in Rochester, MN, and the surrounding areas through comprehensive and compassionate initiatives. At the heart of these efforts is the Immigration Justice Community, a dedicated group of caring, innovative thinkers committed to meeting the needs of asylum seekers. This community organizes various support activities, including legal assistance, housing, and emotional support, ensuring that those seeking refuge receive holistic care.
Additionally, the Immigration Justice Fund provides financial resources to support the urgent needs of asylees, such as legal fees, transportation, and basic living expenses. This fund is essential in bridging the gap for those who cannot afford the high costs associated with the immigration process. Another cornerstone of our advocacy is our partnership with Southern Minnesota Interfaith Immigrant Legal Defense (SMIILD), a non-profit organization that offers legal aid to individuals in ICE detention who cannot afford an attorney. Legal representation is crucial as it can increase the chances of avoiding detention and deportation by six to twelve times. By providing pro bono legal services, SMIILD ensures that those facing immigration challenges have a fair chance in their legal proceedings. Through these coordinated efforts, our congregation not only provides immediate relief and support to immigrants but also advocates for broader systemic change to create a more just and welcoming community. These actions reflect our commitment to social justice and our belief in the inherent worthiness and dignity of every person, showing solidarity with immigrants and asylees in their pursuit of safety and freedom.
Ways you can get involved
- Volunteer
- Immigration Justice Community – A group comprised of caring, outside-the-box thinkers who are dedicated to meeting the needs of asylums seekers. Email Shelly at justice@uurochmn.org.
- Donate
- Immigration Justice Fund – provides financial resources to support the urgent needs of asylees, such as legal fees, transportation, and basic living expenses. You can donate on our Payments and Giving page on our website. Scroll down to “Immigration Fund.”
- Educate Yourself and Others
- Southern Minnesota Interfaith Immigrant Legal Defense (SMIILD) – Southeastern Minnesota Interfaith Immigrant Legal Defense (SMIILD) is a non-profit organization that provides legal assistance to people from our region who are in ICE detention and who lack the means to hire an attorney. Having an attorney improves the chances of avoiding detention and deportation by six to twelve times.