Sofia made the brave and difficult decision to leave her home in El Salvador, fleeing abuse and gang violence to seek asylum for herself and her daughter. But when they reached the U.S. border, they were met with a system that failed to protect them. In her own words: “I thought that claiming asylum would ensure our safety. I was wrong.” Border Patrol kept Sofia and her daughter in a cell for two weeks, while her daughter was sick. Agents handed them paperwork filled with false information, which resulted in their deportation back to El Salvador and imminent danger. Sofia and her daughter had no legal recourse and no opportunity to return until attorneys learned about her case and uncovered their rights were violated. Sofia and her daughter were able to return to the U.S. to file their asylum claim, and now, they live in Virginia where Sofia works, and her daughter goes to school. Her message for others: “We all have rights, but we have to fight for them.” Sofia’s story is a stark reminder that our outdated and dysfunctional asylum system needs reform. Instead, bad-faith politicians are seeking to dismantle asylum protections altogether, further jeopardizing the safety and rights of those seeking refuge. Our elected leaders should prioritize rebuilding our asylum system and centering humanity and dignity. That’s why we’re asking you today: Will you join us in urging President Biden and his administration to restore access to asylum?
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