Granted asylum today and it’s my favorite part of the job.

I interviewed an applicant two weeks ago. Since we have gone back to in-person service, I was able to be there when they received their decision from our office. Myself and the officer helping interpret both remarked how amazing it feels knowing we saved lives today because the people I granted could not return to their country.

For those of you seeking asylum, waiting for interviews or decisions, hang in there. The majority of us doing these jobs are doing it for the right reasons. Most of us care about humanity.

EDIT: I would like to say thank you so, so much for all the kind words and awards. I do this job because I truly love and I shared the above story because I wanted to share hope, and also, because sometimes I need to be reminded of what I get and and go to work for every day.

I appreciate all the questions as well. However, I want to let everyone know, there are some questions I simply don’t know the answer to because immigration is a vast system and I work in a relatively small part of it. Also, there are other questions I’m just not allowed to answer because it would violate my oath and the ethics of my job. I will say this, as a piece of non-legal advice: no matter what benefit you’re applying for, no matter the reason you’re applying, just be honest. Just answer all questions as truthfully as possible. This seems so common sense, but it is fundamental to this process.

Someone asked if I was worried about being doxxed or threatened. Someone else showed concern for my job. I want to say thank you for thinking of those things and for being concerned. The short answer is no, I’m not afraid. I say that because I do my job, I work very, very hard, and I follow the rules and laws of immigration. I am not afraid of someone trying to get me fired, because I can prove I work hard and I uphold my oath to the constitution. That being said, if there’s ever a question, I will fight like hell. I’m a disabled vet, we know what it means to fight for our rights and justify our existence. Plus, I’ve had someone trying to get me fired for years, from other agencies even, and they’ve failed consistently. Ha. But, again, it’s hard to fire someone who does their job.

Thank you for your kindness. Go forth and spread it around to the rest of humanity. 💜