FROM TRAUMA TO TRIUMPH
Explore our Impact Report by clicking on any of the buttons below.
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OASIS BY THE NUMBERS
An overview of our client demographics, revenue, and spending
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MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Remarks from our Executive Director and Board Chair
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PARTNERING FOR JUSTICE
Interns, volunteers, and pro bono attorneys
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FROM TRAUMA TO TRIUMPH
Empowering queer and trans immigrants
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STRENGTHENING SUPPORT SYSTEMS
Training providers to advocate for queer and trans immigrants
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A NEW ERA OF ACCESS
Free asylum services for low-income LGBTQ+ immigrants
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IMMIGRATION STATUS IS A SOCIAL DETERMINANT OF HEALTH
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FROM ADVOCACY TO ACTION
Securing rights and benefits for LGBTQ+ immigrants
Working with and supporting LGBTQ+ asylum seekers means empowering them to emotionally and mentally fortify themselves when talking about their traumatic past—the success of their cases often depends on them being able to recount every detail of their persecution, however violent or graphic. Oasis clients have access to psychologists and social services navigation support to help them take charge of their narrative and ensure a continuum of support.
Through partnerships like the California Department of Social Services, we provide information and services to survivors of hate incidents and hate crimes, especially for those who are historically vulnerable because of their immigration status, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, and/or HIV status.
On September 23, 2024, Executive Director, Adam Ryan Chang, spoke at the United Against Hate Day Summit at the Commonwealth Club on “Building a Cross-Cultural Coalition Against Hate.” On a panel featuring representatives from Oasis Legal Services, San Francisco Interfaith Council, Equality California, and the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, Adam shared,
“At 17 years old, I was unhoused because my family could not accept my sexuality. I exist because of coalitions. I exist because as a young person, my community organized, created programming… so that [queer] young people like myself… could have a future.”
Oasis embodies this spirit of community organizing and advocacy to benefit LGBTQ+ immigrants so that all our clients can reach their full potential.
In October 2024, we partnered with Education & Leadership Foundation (ELF) and California Rural Legal Assistance, Inc. (CRLA) to host a “Knowledge is Power” workshop for LGBTQ+ immigrants at Fresno City College. During this workshop, we provided our community with information about their rights in employment and immigration contexts and what to do if they are victims of a hate crime or incident. Community partners provided resources regarding the services they provide and how clients can get connected with each of their organizations.
The coaching and guidance we provide our clients not only empowers them in navigating their own immigration journeys but equips them with the tools to advocate within their communities. Many of our clients embody our mission of supporting and empowering all LGBTQ+ immigrants—they craft letters of support for newcomers and engage in outreach efforts, bringing newcomers to our office and guiding fellow LGBTQ+ immigrants toward the support they need.
By amplifying their voices, we foster a culture of solidarity and empowerment, ensuring that the insights and contributions of LGBTQ+ immigrants resonate far beyond our organization's walls.