For more than three decades, people like you have supported CHIRLA’s work with policymakers, in neighborhoods, and for FAMILIES. More, than ever, your end-of-year gift is crucial to the work we do to provide affordable immigration legal services, ignite the Immigrant Political Power Project, lead the way on the census, and above all protect all families. Support our mission. Donate below.
My name is Jair...
I am #StillHere
My name is Jair Solís, and I was thrown in ICE’s Theo Lacy immigrant prison earlier this year. I have lived in this country for more than 30 years, time enough to start and support a family as manager in a company that cleans apartment buildings and shopping centers. Ofelia, my wife, is my partner and my support. My son, Jair Jr., is the pride of my life. One morning in February, ICE agents cornered me as I headed to work. There were five of them, all armed, and they arrested me because I applied for a green card. They said I had a couple of unpaid tickets from 22 years ago, and they were going to deport me. I spent weeks waiting, wondering how the rent was going to be paid, worrying about how my son was coping. Jair Jr. is a member of CHIRLA’s high school group, and he told the organizer what happened. Soon, I was talking to a CHIRLA attorney, and he agreed to represent me. When I knew I was going to have a lawyer, I felt so hopeful. And then, when I was released on bail and held my family in my arms again, it was like paradise. If CHIRLA hadn’t been there to represent me, I would not be here today, with my family. We are together because of them.
CHIRLA kept my family together. But they've done more than that!
A FATHER IS #STILLHERE
Jair is father to two U.S.-born children. He and his wife have lived here for more than 30 years.
A FRIEND IS #STILLHERE
Jair and his son Jair Jr are best friends. The son takes after the dad in the way they laugh, talk, and walk. But most importantly, they depend on each other. Like true best friends.
A LEADER Is #STILLHERE
After another year of relentless attacks on immigrants, it’s difficult to have hope for the future--but YOU can help by donating right here.
Make a Year-End Gift
With another year filled with headlines about anti-immigrant rhetoric, it’s difficult to have hope for the future--but YOU can help by donating right here.
Other Ways to Give
““Because of CHIRLA, I found a voice and a purpose, even without legal status. That is something I will have for the rest of my life.””
