DEAR FRIENDS OF OASIS,

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

Since our founding, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to providing the highest-quality legal support to those who need it most. The Trump presidency continues to bring with it heightened xenophobia, anti-immigrant rhetoric, and a dangerous rise in white nationalism. For many of the LGBTQ+ individuals we serve, 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

Founded in 2017, Oasis has kept our doors open and our mission unwavering. 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, life-saving outcomes.

In 2018, for example, we represented a transgender woman from Honduras who had been beaten and threatened by local gangs because of her gender identity. Her case was particularly difficult because of the political climate and the administration’s attacks on transgender rights. Despite this, we advocated for her asylum claim based on both the risk to her physical safety and the legal recognition of her gender identity in the U.S. After a long and complex legal battle, we were able to secure asylum for her—a victory that changed her life and reaffirmed our belief in the power of justice.

Effective Advocacy in the Face of Adversity

Our commitment to advocacy has never been more important. With rising white nationalism and increased anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments, we have expanded our focus beyond individual legal representation to systemic advocacy. In 2024, we joined forces with national organizations to [provide concrete example].

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 these challenging times. We have diversified our funding sources and have built a robust infrastructure to better meet the needs of our clients—whether through expanding our team of legal professionals or increasing our outreach to communities at risk.

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

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, we know that there will continue to be significant challenges. But we also know that our work is more important than ever. 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, not reject it.

We are so grateful for your support, which makes all of this work possible. Together, we have made a profound difference in the lives of thousands of individuals, and with your help, we will continue to do so for many years to come.

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

With deep appreciation,

Adam Ryan Chang | Executive Director