Courage and Resilence

When Hugo* was only 14 years old, he fled from his home country to escape violent gang members who repeatedly threatened him, demanding that he work for them. Hugo never knew his dad, and his mom had previously fled to the U.S. years before, leaving him in the care of his elderly great-grandparents, who were unable to protect him. Hugo traveled alone as an unaccompanied minor, navigating incredibly difficult and dangerous circumstances to reach the U.S. southern border. But he held out hope that he might see his mom and escape the violence that he knew would inevitably engulf him.  

We met Hugo soon after he arrived in Northern Virginia, and we helped him apply for asylum and for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS). After a state court judge determined it was in Hugo’s best interest to remain in the U.S. with his mom and USCIS granted his SIJS application, we all waited … for six years.

Last week, we represented Hugo (now 20 years old!) in Immigration Court as a judge granted Hugo’s application for permanent residency. As a kind and responsible young man, he is deeply invested in supporting his mom and cares for his younger sister. We are so happy for Hugo and this new chapter in his life, and we know he will continue to be a blessing to his family and community.

Hugo sought refuge in the United States, but that only describes him; it does not define him. Even at a young age, he exhibited bravery and perseverance in the face of loss and violence. This is the case for many whom we call refugees and asylum-seekers. Our refugee brothers and sisters do not choose to become refugees, but they do, by definition, choose courage, sacrifice and hope. We believe God cares for the sojourner which is why we walk with our clients on the long road to permanent security in the U.S.  And we thank you for supporting them along the way as well. 

* Name has been changed.