Marianne from Tajikistan

Marianne fled persecution in her country, Tajikistan, for the safety of America. Marianne first sought the help of a private attorney who she did not feel was looking out for her best interest. After a long delay her case had still not been filed. At that point she had no financial means and did not know where to turn. Marianne was beginning to feel that safety would never be a part of her life again. After struggling to find other legal representation, Marianne came to Human Rights Initiative for help. Her first appointment was stressful, but she was immediately reassured that she qualified to apply for asylum and Human Rights Initiative would take her case.

In the beginning, she was studying at a local college and trying to gain a sense of security in a country with a different culture and where she had few friends. Once her legal case was prepared and filed with the help of Human Rights Initiative, Marianne went to Houston for an interview at the INS asylum office. Marianne exhibited strong confidence while telling her story to the asylum officer. Ten days passed and Marianne received a letter from the INS through the mail. She was very scared to open the letter and let a friend open it for her. She could not believe her ears when she heard the words “recommended for approval”. In Marianne’s own words, “I jumped and did not feel my legs as if they were made from cotton.”

Marianne then called Kim Rafalski at Human Rights Initiative where Kim explained that it was a blessing she was granted because her case was very difficult. Marianne explained that she felt very protective towards the United States because it was now her home. She knew that she did not have to go back to Tajikistan again. In Marianne’s own words, “I feel like everything belongs to me here, the trees, the streets, the birds, the people.”

Marianne sent Human Rights Initiative a letter of thanks. “It is funny how lawyers can . . . take money from you and do nothing and here there are people who take you with nothing, and do their job with all their heart. After all, I do agree with Kim Rafalski that things do happen for a reason and I am so thankful to God that I came . . . to Human Rights Initiative.”

(Please note that the client’s name has been changed to protect her identity.)