Standing with Immigrants During a Time of Crisis
The Challenge
Advocacy organizations are used to taking on tough fights. But a client of ours found themselves in a difficult and personal battle when immigration officials, burdened by understaffing from the previous administration, left a leader in their organization, Ju Hong, without DACA. This meant Hong was at risk of losing his job and, worse, would be exposed to deportation.
Our Approach
We knew that a point of strength for NAKASEC was using its voice and connections in order to pressure USCIS to do the right thing and extend Hong’s DACA. We made it our job to organize that potential and energy into a strategic, clear, and coordinated communications response. We started by convening staff and facilitating a conversation on goals and available resources. We turned this into a plan with clear roles, protocols, and timelines, and we also engaged in a media relations effort.
The Results
Through our rapid response work, planning, and execution, we produced media placements on CNN, KQED, among others, that raised the profile of Hong’s case. Ultimately, this effort was successful: USCIS restored the young leader’s DACA status.
We were further honored to pitch in while leaving something behind. We used this rapid response moment as an opportunity to familiarize staff with communications work. Becky Belcore, NAKASEC’s Executive Director, said our firm’s work helped NAKASEC learn what's possible through strategic communications.