Immigration Advocacy in Washington State with Malou Chávez, Executive Director at Northwest Immigrant Rights Project

Malou Chávez is the first immigrant woman of color to serve as executive director of Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP). NWIRP, a nationally recognized legal services organization in Washington State, is dedicated to advancing and defending the rights of immigrants with low or no income through direct legal services, community education, and systemic advocacy. 

In her 17 years at NWIRP, Malou has seen how statewide and national policy towards immigrants and refugees has ebbed and flowed. The current United States administration is rapidly expanding anti-immigrant policies, and in this episode, Malou shares her story, avenues of support that immigrant communities need in this challenging national landscape, and her sources of hope and motivation while leading this deeply emotional work.

Level up your advocacy for immigrant rights:

1. Follow along with NWIRP’s work on their socials and website. The “Resources” section offers a wealth of information to share. 

2. Research organizations in your neighborhood that work for immigrant and refugee committees. Washington state’s Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs is a good place to start looking for resources and organizations. - https://www.seattle.gov/iandraffairs/programs-and-services 

3. Advocate by reaching out to your district representative - http://leg.wa.gov/legislators You can find your other state and local representatives at https://www.commoncause.org/find-your-representative/addr/

4. Information sharing - whatever you learn, share with your networks. Webinars and community meetings happen often across the region – spread the word so people can access the most up-to-date, relevant information.

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Episodes release on the fourth Wednesday of the month. See you in June! 

About the Music: All music by Benjamin Marx - https://www.bnmrx.com/