llaalinta Xaquuqda Shacakba, "Guarding the Rights of the People," is a victim advocacy program developed for immigrant and refugee populations of the African Diaspora. This project is designed to cater to the overwhelming demand for culturally specific victim services for immigrants and refugees who are survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, hate crimes, and gang violence. Following months of workshops, data collection, surveys, and one-on-one interviews, it is evident that our community suffers from trauma pertaining to their experience as immigrants associated with not only the challenges faced in their home countries but also as minorities in a dominant culture society. Crime survivors in our communities deserve culturally specific victim advocates. Our program has proven that culturally specific services increase victim access to advocacy programs.

Culturally Specific Services

Immigrants and refugees face countless barriers when navigating the criminal and civil justice systems. Lack of cultural competence in agencies, language barriers, and a lack of trust and confidence in the system are just a few of the things our community members face. Our victim advocacy program addresses these barriers and aims to bridge the gap in victim advocacy services. All of our advocates speak more than one language and are highly qualified to address cultural needs.

Testimonials

“This program helped me a lot. Thank you for all that you do for us. Without the support of the advocates at AYCO, I don’t think I would have been able to resolve my case or seek any justice for myself or my family. I am very pleased with the services I received.”

“Hinda and Mohammed were so helpful as interpreters. We don’t understand this legal system and the English language, and it was great to have people who know us and our culture explain.”