DEAR FRIENDS OF OASIS,

As we reflect on the past year, I am humbled to share with you the journey we’ve taken together in supporting LGBTQ+ immigrants, especially in the face of recent challenges in our nation’s history.

Since our founding in 2017, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to providing the highest-quality legal support to those who need it most. The Trump presidency threatened to bring with it heightened xenophobia, anti-immigrant rhetoric, and a dangerous rise in white nationalism. For our LGBTQ+ clients, these policies are not just abstract issues—they are life-threatening. We witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of policies such as the “Muslim Ban,” family separations, and the revocation of protections for transgender individuals. These policies strip away the rights of those already marginalized, and yet, our response is clear: we fight back, and we will not waver in our dedication to justice.

Our Commitment to Clients During Turbulent Times

In 2024, whether it was securing asylum for an LGBTQ+ individual fleeing violence in Central America, or protecting transgender clients facing deportation to countries where their identities could result in imprisonment or death, our team worked tirelessly to provide legal services that gave our clients not just hope, but tangible, lifesaving outcomes.

For example, one of our asylum clients, Carlos (name changed for safety), had requested sobriety support through our Social Services Program. However, in opening up to our team, we learned that he was also recently diagnosed with HIV. In February 2024, with the quick work of our team, we were able to refer Carlos to his local LGBTQ+ Center and gain access to an HIV specialist who provided rapid treatment until Carlos’ health insurance was approved. Carlos was able to obtain both physical and mental health support, which enabled him to focus on his journey of sobriety maintenance. This stability also allowed him to start his own business! Carlos’ asylum application is still pending, and in October 2024, we submitted his work permit application. Today, he has a network of support and is on a steady path toward healing.

Effective Advocacy in the Face of Adversity

Our commitment to advocacy has always been a priority. With rising white nationalism and increased anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments, we have expanded our focus beyond individual legal representation to systemic advocacy. For example, in January 2024, we co-created a collaborative LGBTQ+ asylum working group with Immigration Equality to provide national insights, policy updates, and best practices for a network of immigration service providers specializing in LGBTQ+ asylum. In September, our team participated in a week-long pilgrimage to advocate for the closing of the six remaining immigrant detention centers in California. As a result of the pilgrimage, we built new connections that led to a convening of advocates committed to improving the conditions of queer and trans immigrants in detention.

A Commitment to Sustainability

Over the past eight years, we have also worked hard to ensure the long-term sustainability of our organization. We are grateful for the continued support of our dedicated donors, pro bono attorneys, and community partners who have been essential in enabling us to adapt to challenging times. We have diversified our funding sources and have built a robust infrastructure to better meet the needs of our clients throughout the years—whether through expanding our legal team or increasing our outreach to communities at risk. I am proud that in 2024 Oasis secured a one-time-award of two million dollars from MacKenzie Scott that has allowed us to responsibly replenish our reserve fund in proportion to an increase in demand for our services, our growing budget, and with an eye on increasing fluctuations in funding.

In 2024, after celebrating our Fresno office’s second anniversary, we were awarded a grant from the City of Fresno. This award was the city’s first grant-funding cycle for LGBTQ+ providers. This initiative was made possible through partnerships with community organizations and political leaders that share our vision for a safer, more just world. We have also continued our commitment to training and capacity building, ensuring that our team and community is equipped with the latest legal tools and knowledge to effectively advocate for our clients.

Looking Ahead

As we look toward the future, we know that there will be significant challenges. We know that our work is lifesaving, and we are committed to standing with those who need us, regardless of what the political landscape may bring. Our advocacy will always center on the dignity, safety, and rights of LGBTQ+ asylum seekers and immigrants, and we will continue to fight for policies that affirm their humanity, rather than reject it.

We are immensely grateful for your support, which makes our work possible. Together, we’ve made a profound difference in the lives of thousands of individuals, and with your continued support, we will keep doing so for many years to come.

Thank you for being with us, for supporting LGBTQ+ asylum seekers, and for ensuring that justice prevails in even the darkest of times.

With deep appreciation,

Adam Ryan Chang | Executive Director