Ranay is a determined, positive-energy transgender woman who is dedicated to mentoring transgender youth and speaking out for her community. She is currently studying to become a clothing designer—even while in detention—and her designs are inspired by nature, which she misses dearly after 20 months behind bars. Ranay dreams of launching a podcast to provide a positive role model for young transgender people and to raise awareness about the violence faced by the transgender community.
Unfortunately, Ranay is facing imminent deportation to a country she hasn’t seen in 40 years, where there are no protections for transgender people. She is not in touch with her family and has no connections there. Recently, she discovered a mistake ICE made in her deportation order and has been fighting her case on her own. She has also applied for a British passport (her mother had one) and that application is pending.
Despite her efforts, ICE suddenly moved her from Colorado to Arizona, and she is facing imminent deportation. She was in a transgender women's unit in Colorado, but now she is in the mainstream male population, which is extremely frightening for a transgender Black woman. Now that she has been moved to Arizona, the main pro-bono organization in Colorado can't help her. Communication with her has been cut off, and only a lawyer can now reach her.
We urgently need funds to hire a lawyer who can block her deportation and fight for her safety. We have applied for free legal services everywhere we can, but have not received a positive response. If you are a lawyer who can offer pro bono services, that would be life-changing. If Ranay is deported before we secure a lawyer, any funds raised will be used to help other immigrants in detention needing legal services. Wherever Ranay lands, she will contribute enormously to the community and pay your kindness forward. Your support will help keep Ranay safe and allow her to continue inspiring and supporting others in the transgender community. With gratitude, Mary Pat, friend and activist.