ILJ Network is proud and excited to announce that VIDAS (Vital Immigrant Defense Advocacy and Services) of California’s Northern Bay Area will officially join the ILJ Network on January 1, 2025.
As passionate advocates and legal service providers, VIDAS has been an essential part of the immigrant communities of the region since its founding in 2014. They currently serve clients at five offices—in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Vallejo, and on the Santa Rosa Junior College and Napa Valley College campuses—with a total of 22 legal and other staff members.
VIDAS attorneys take on an array of case types, with a particular focus on deportation defense, unaccompanied minors, college students, and agricultural workers.
With five separate offices in four cities, VIDAS serves a wide expanse of California’s Northern Bay area.
“Bringing VIDAS into our network comes at a crucial moment,” states ILJ Co-Executive Director Melissa Bowe. “Their removal defense program will continue to be a lifeline for their local community, and their expertise will enrich us all nationwide at a time we anticipate this area of immigration law greatly expanding.”
“We are beyond impressed with their leadership, passion, and vision,” Melissa adds. “It is truly an honor to have the opportunity to work closely with such an outstanding team.”
“VIDAS is thrilled to become an affiliate of the Immigration Law and Justice Network,” responds VIDAS Executive Director Monica Julian.
“We are deeply aligned with ILJ Network’s antiracist, trauma-informed immigrant advocacy approach. ILJ Network’s leadership genuinely understands the need for infrastructure support, and we are grateful for the opportunity to have our programs fortified by their expertise, experience, and thoughtful care.”
About the ILJ Network
In 2023, ILJ attorneys and staff worked with nearly 7,000 new clients—from 130 countries—on over 21,000 different cases.
When VIDAS joins us on January 1, 2025, they will become part of a network of 19 affiliated sites in 18 states and the District of Columbia. From New York to Honolulu and Florida to Washington State; in cities, towns, rural areas, and along our Southern border. Our diversity—and our people—make us mighty.
“As we work with and for people from all over the world, we can’t wait to link arms with ILJ Network affiliates across the country to create safer, more just, and equitable communities for all,” says Monica.
“When we belong, we are free.”
Please join us in welcoming VIDAS to the ILJ Network family!