I met my friend MA on a quiet evening while I was walking home from work. He was standing near a Home Depot, exhausted after a long day of trying to find work to support himself. We started talking, and what began as a chance encounter has grown into a deep friendship.

MA is a survivor of unimaginable hardship. He fled his home in Africa after being targeted and tortured by the government for his tribal and alleged political affiliations. He came to the U.S. seeking the basic right to live without fear, but his journey here has been paved with obstacles. Early on, he was targeted by a predatory lawyer who scammed him and delayed his legal process. Despite this, MA’s spirit is unbroken: he has recently started working, is taking English classes three times a week, and is determined to earn his GED.

The Current Crisis at 26 Federal Plaza

MA has a mandatory court date coming up at 26 Federal Plaza in Manhattan. As of February 2026, the environment there has become increasingly dangerous. Under the new federal "Operation Salvo," there have been widespread reports of masked ICE agents detaining individuals directly in the hallways of the immigration court.

For someone like MA, who has already survived government torture, the prospect of facing this environment without a legal shield is a terrifying reality.

The Solution: Attorney Ramon Guerra

Through a referral from activist Manuela Agudelo, we have connected with Ramon Guerra, a reputable immigration attorney known for his deep commitment to justice and human rights. Ramon believes MA has a very strong asylum claim. However, his case is assigned to a judge known for being exceptionally difficult. To win, we need to build a flawless, evidence-backed case.

Our Initial Goal: The First $2,000

The total cost for a complex asylum defense is $10,000. Our immediate goal is $2,000 to pay the initial retainer. This is a critical safety milestone that allows Ramon to:

Formally enter the case, providing MA with an immediate legal shield.

File a Motion for a Virtual Hearing, so MA can testify from a safe location and avoid the risk of ICE detention in the federal building entirely.

How You Can Help

Every dollar goes directly toward MA’s legal fees. After being scammed once, he deserves a defense that truly cares for his life and his future. Thank you for standing with us to ensure that a survivor of torture finally finds the peace and justice he was promised.