Autumn is a first-generation immigrant who’s family had to flee from Vietnam when she was 5 years old. Because of this she felt compelled to help others by empowering herself in a law career. She moved to Estes Park 3 years ago during our wildfire scare and COVID. There was a lot of Asian hate going on at the time and because of that she cautiously made her way into the Estes community, just in case. She reached out to help through the American Legion. It seemed fitting because the Navy saved their lives when they were immigrating.
She has opened a legal clinic, The Community Legal clinic, at the Legion during one Thursday each month. EVICS is the other place where she offers her The Community Legal Clinic. She has served 50 people since Spring. 21 needed translations (mostly Spanish). 72% wanted to get legal help with immigration issues. 33% of the 72% wanted to learn about citizenship. The Learning Place is offering classes on citizenship.
There was no program that put everything together, ie; how to become a citizen. That’s where The Community Legal Clinic helps immigrants with:
· Protection from immigration
· Vote in elections
· Obtain a US Passport – ease of travel
· Eligibility for certain govt assistance/benefits
· No need to renew legal permanent residence every 10 years (apply and filing fee (currently $540 each time)).
· Can get additional petition for parents and siblings to come to the U.S.
Citizenship Eligibility
· Legal Permanent Resident
· Good moral character
· U.S. Residency requirement
· Pass a Civics test
· English proficiency
· Willing to take the oath
Sample questions from the Civics test (have to get 6 out of 10 correct to pass.)
1. When was the declaration of independence signed
2. How many amendments does the constitution have (27)
3. Name one US territory - Puerto Rico, Guam etc
4. # of people in the House of Representatives (435)
5. Who was the Pres during WWI – Woodrow Wilson
88% pass the first time. Get two tries. Typically on the second try, 95% pass. There are only two tries.
Common barriers before applying:
· Financial hardship – filing fee $725
· English proficiency
· Intimidated by the questions
· Legal issues
· Lack of knowledge (some who don’t even know they are eligible for citizenship)
Citizenship project partners who want to help immigrants to get their citizenship are
· American Legion
· The Learning Place
· Estes Park Nonprofit resource center
· EVICS (very trusted in the immigrant community in Estes Park. They offer ESL classes)
· Estes Valley Library
· League of Women Voters of EP
· Honorable Mention: EP Newcomers Club (source of volunteers)
Info on The Community Legal Clinic webpage for information
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