Content Warning: The following story contains material that may be harmful or traumatizing to some audiences.

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Hi there — my name is Li Ann, and I recently participated in the National Immigration Law Center’s Freedom to Thrive event in Atlanta, Georgia, joining members of my community and Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta to share my immigrant experience. Read my story here >>>

I was born in a small, remote town between Veracruz and Oaxaca, Mexico, which is where I began my journey as a trans Indigenous woman.

Discrimination and hardship have been constant throughout my life. At a young age, I experienced abuse and was held against my will in Mexico City. Seeking a better life, I made my way to the United States, only to confront the harsh reality of human trafficking, enduring a year of forced prostitution in a brothel.

Then I faced another formidable barrier: being an undocumented immigrant who didn't speak English. This led to my incarceration and a year in solitary confinement, solely because of the various identities I hold.

Instead of allowing this experience to break me, it fueled my determination to speak out against the injustices within the immigration system.

Upon my release, I immersed myself in pro-immigrant, pro-queer, and pro-community movements, standing proudly at the intersection of being a trans immigrant, Latina, and an Indigenous woman.

I had the honor of being Representative Park Cannon’s first legislative aide who is undocumented, Latina, Indigenous, and Spanish-speaking. Additionally, I founded Community EsTr(El/La), an organization dedicated to defending, mobilizing, and empowering Indigenous communities, including the trans/queer (LGBTQ+) community.

The U.S. immigration system often silences our voices, and it can be frustrating. We are individuals with values, courage, and dedication. However, our contributions often go unnoticed. But amidst these injustices and challenges, there's also a brighter side — a side that has helped me thrive within the circles where inclusion exists.

I invite you to learn more and read my story and watch this video, recapping NILC’s event in Atlanta.

Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey, and I hope it serves as a reminder that through dedication and commitment, we can all play a role in building an inclusive society where everyone can truly thrive.

- Li Ann Antonio Sanchez (Estrella)