Shadi "Soph" Heidarifar's Fundraiser for Asylum

Hi,

I'm Shadi "Soph" Heidarifar. I'm setting up this fundraiser because I’m in the process of suing USCIS for my asylum case and in need of your help.

As a West Asian Queer woman of Color, when I first moved to the US, I filed for asylum. My country is among the fewest countries on earth that systematically executes people (even minors) for their sexual orientation and brutally assaults/kills women for their clothing choices. My asylum case is also based on the systemic treatment that I personally got there both as a woman and as a Queer person. So, the case itself is pretty straightforward and strong. However, it’s been over four years that USCIS hasn’t scheduled an interview for my case yet. My lawyer recently explained to me that an alternative is to sue USCIS in a federal court to schedule an interview. The problem, however, is that this entire process costs $3000. The interview itself costs an additional $2500. As an international graduate student, I’m in no position to pay this amount on my own. So, I’m asking for your help to please consider supporting this cause.

I can’t emphasize enough how much your support means to me; it is literally life-saving! When I first moved to this country, I was able to find who I am because of the amazing support I’ve got, and with the same kind of support, I’m sure we will achieve this goal as well. Also, if for any reason, this is not something you’d like to monetarily support, I would still truly appreciate it if you could please share my story with anyone who might be interested in supporting as well. Basically, the goal is to make sure this chain of communication and forwarding won’t get stopped until we hit the goal.

Once again, thank you so much for your time, consideration, and support (in all forms).

In solidarity and with love,

Shadi “Soph” Heidarifar