Safe2BeYou: Championing LGBTQ+ Justice in New Mexico
In a time when the national debate on LGBTQ+ rights is more fervent than ever, New Mexico Legal Aid (NMLA) is standing at the forefront, offering a lifeline to those most vulnerable. Through their Safe2BeYou Program, NMLA provides essential legal assistance to LGBTQ+ survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking across the state. This June, in honor of Pride Month, NMLA invites you to join their mission by becoming a Pride Partner in Justice.
The impact of the Safe2BeYou Program is profound, reaching into the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals who face not only violence and discrimination but also a myriad of legal challenges. From housing and healthcare access to employment issues and civil rights violations, Safe2BeYou offers a comprehensive suite of legal services to support these survivors. And with the generous support of the community, these services are provided free of charge, ensuring that justice and protection are available to all, regardless of their financial situation.
Take, for instance, the story of Jamie, a transgender individual who suffered institutional violence and discrimination. With the help of Safe2BeYou, and after securing a monetary award for violation of the client’s civil rights, Jamie was able to establish a special needs trust that allowed them to maintain crucial public benefits such as social security and Medicaid. This trust not only improved Jamie’s standard of living but also provided them with personal transportation to therapy appointments—a first in their life. This transformation in Jamie’s life highlights the tangible difference that the Safe2BeYou Program can make, offering not just legal solutions but also a renewed sense of hope and dignity.
Another story is that of Dimas v. Pecos Independent School District. In this case, Safe2BeYou was advocating for the recognition of a right to privacy in the compelled disclosure of sexual orientation and the right to limited discovery in civil rights cases where State actors asserted qualified immunity as a defense. Unfortunately, while the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit recently decided not to disturb the District Judge’s dismissal of the case, the case was hard fought by Safe2BU attorneys seeking to provide LGBTQ+ youth the possibility of justice through enforcing their Title IX rights, and protecting minority students from discrimination in school activities. This legal battle exemplifies Safe2BeYou’s commitment to fighting for systemic change and ensuring that the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals are upheld in all spheres of life, regardless of the ultimate outcome.
Becoming a Pride Partner in Justice means directly supporting these critical efforts. Your contributions help cover court filing fees for clients, many of whom are children, which can range between $100-$300 per person. Moreover, high-impact cases, such as those requiring expert testimony and extensive advocacy, can cost between $1,000-$5,000. Your donations ensure that Safe2BeYou can continue to provide free, comprehensive legal services and tackle discrimination at all levels.
The services offered by Safe2BeYou extend beyond the courtroom. They include legal advice, referrals, and full attorney representation in a wide range of areas such as housing, healthcare access, family law, civil rights, and more. Importantly, all communications with Safe2BeYou are free and confidential, empowering survivors to understand their options without any obligation to proceed with legal action.
NMLA’s dedication to the LGBTQ+ community is unwavering. Their efforts, especially through the Safe2BeYou Program, underscore the importance of legal support in the fight for equality and justice. This Pride Month, by becoming a Pride Partner in Justice, you can join this vital cause. Together, we can ensure that every LGBTQ+ individual in New Mexico has the support they need to navigate their legal challenges and build a safer, more inclusive future.
For more information on how to become a Pride Partner in Justice and support the Safe2BeYou Program, visit newmexicolegalaid.org/Safe2BeYou.