Hello friends, family, and community,

For those who don’t know me, my name is Josue Andonaegui, and I am a proud DACA recipient since 2012, when the program first began.

My family migrated to the U.S. over two decades ago. Like many immigrant families, my parents made the difficult decision to leave everything behind to give my sister and me the chance to build a better life.

Since high school, I’ve dedicated my life to empowering my community — first in Arkansas, where I joined campaigns for in-state tuition accessibility and helped organize DACA clinics to support other Dreamers. After moving to Arizona in 2016, I continued working and volunteering on initiatives that strengthen immigrant rights, small businesses, and local communities.

For nearly 17 years, I’ve advocated for others — helping people find their voice, fight for equity, and build better futures. But in doing so, I forgot to advocate for myself.

That changes today.

For years, I stayed silent, burdened by shame and guilt that kept me in an eight-year abusive relationship. I convinced myself not to inconvenience anyone, even as I endured experiences no one should face. But I’m finally choosing to speak up — to seek safety, peace, and a chance at stability.

That’s why I’m humbly asking for your generosity to help me raise $3,560 to cover the costs of filing my VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) application and Adjustment of Status with USCIS. These applications will allow me to rebuild my life legally, safely, and permanently in the country I’ve called home for more than 20 years.

While I had planned to pay for this process myself, things have taken a difficult turn. The second job I took to cover legal costs was recently revoked due to federal funding cuts.

Adding to the urgency, the Supreme Court is scheduled to decide on November 7 whether to hear a case that could revoke marriage equality. If this happens, states could regain the power to restrict marriage — which would directly impact people like me who are seeking protection and immigration relief through VAWA.

Now, more than ever, time is critical.

Your support — whether through a donation, a share, or a message of encouragement — will help me take this life-changing step toward healing, safety, and independence. Every contribution brings me closer to submitting my application before the court’s decision.

How the funds will be used:

Expense Estimated Cost

VAWA Application Free

Adjustment of Status (USCIS Fee) Update* waived do to my specific application case. Changed as of 4/1/24

Medical Exam Psy- Phy $1,150

Mexican Passport $210

Evidence, Printing, and Documentation $200

Legal Consultation and Legal Preparation $2,000

Total Goal: $3,560

From the bottom of my heart — thank you.

Thank you for helping me take this final step toward safety, peace, and a future filled with dignity and purpose.

With gratitude,

Josue Andonaegui