Supporting Mateo’s Journey to Apply for Asylum and Earn Work Authorization

“Mateo” experienced psychological and sexual abuse in his home country of Colombia by a family member and Roman Catholic priest. After receiving death threats related to his sexual orientation and HIV status, Mateo tried to seek protection from his government, but he was denied help. Fearing for his life, Mateo fled Colombia and came to the United States to seek asylum. He initially settled in New York, but with no family or support, he relocated to San Francisco to be closer to a friend.

When Mateo first connected with ALRP, the deadline for filing his asylum application was quickly approaching. Staff Attorney Slater Stanley promptly helped Mateo prepare and file the application with the New York Immigration Court and then prepared a motion to transfer the case to San Francisco. Once eligible, Slater then helped Mateo apply for and secure a work permit and social security number.

With that employment authorization, Mateo can work legally in the U.S. and is actively applying for jobs while he waits for his asylum hearing with the San Francisco Immigration Court. With a legal education in Colombia, Mateo is looking forward to pursuing work here in the United States.

Staff Attorney Slater Stanley

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