Maria's Story 

I never imagined I would end up a victim of human trafficking and a survivor of domestic violence. 

I was brought to the US when I was 16 years old by my boyfriend and father of my child, Javier. He promised a better life for our family and I was excited about the opportunities. After we arrived in the US, things changed for the worse. I was forced to cook and clean for him and all his employees. He took my documents and told me to not leave the house because anyone on the street could be working for immigration. He said if they caught me, they would deport me. I did not understand my rights and I was afraid.

Shortly thereafter, Javier told me he had to travel for work. He locked me in the house and boarded up the windows saying it was for my protection. I was left in that house for eight months. He came back sporadically to bring food and diapers, but that is when the abuse began. He would rape and beat me each time he returned. Because of this, I became pregnant again. After giving birth, I was released from the hospital and Javier demanded I do laundry for him and his employees. There was no time for me to rest, heal and bond with my baby.

I was miserable and trapped in this nightmare. He told me if I tried to leave, he would find me and hurt me. Then, he hit me so hard, my eardrum ruptured. I knew at this point the abuse was only going to get worse and I was tired of living this way. When he left the room, I had a moment to text a friend and ask for help. My friend called the police and Javier was arrested. I was relieved to find out I could get a restraining order to protect my children and me. 

I was referred to a nonprofit for basic needs and shelter. The case worker said I needed an attorney, but I told them I could not afford one. They referred me to the Immigration Legal Services program at Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Their staff attorney helped me get a U visa for me and my daughter. I learned I was eligible for a U visa since I was a victim of crime and was willing to help the authorities with an investigation. The same lawyer later represented me in the deportation proceedings initiated against me when I entered the US.

Having an attorney's help gave me tremendous hope. The assistance I received not only saved my life, but it empowered me to start my own business. I always dreamed of being a makeup artist and hair stylist and now I was free to follow my dreams and earn my own income. Since then, I have bought a trailer and have a home for my family. My life was changed for the better and now I can focus on raising my children.

Maria's story is unique because not only was she a victim of domestic violence, she also needed immigration legal services. That is why giving to the Oklahoma Bar Foundation is so important because each year we fund Oklahoma nonprofits who provide legal services for domestic violence victims, immigration legal services and more. 

Help us break the cycle of abuse! Donate to our 75 for 75 Campaign to help others like Maria!