News & Insights

1. Personal Affidavit

Your affidavit (personal statement) is the cornerstone of your asylum application. It should detail your personal experiences, fears, and the persecution you’ve faced.

How to Write an Effective Affidavit:

• Describe Your Identity: Explain your sexual orientation and how this puts you at risk in your home country.
• Detail Persecution or Threats: Include specific incidents where you were targeted, such as violence, threats, or harassment. Be as detailed as possible, including dates, locations, and individuals involved.
• Fear of Returning: Clearly articulate why you believe you would face harm or persecution if you were to return.
• Impact of Persecution: Describe the emotional, physical, and social toll these incidents have had on you.

2. Evidence of Country Conditions

Country condition reports can provide critical context and corroborate your claims of systemic persecution of LGBTQ+ individuals.

Key Resources:

• U.S. Department of State Human Rights Reports – Annual reports detailing human rights abuses, including the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Human Rights Watch: LGBTQ+ Rights – Reports highlighting abuses faced by LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.
• Amnesty International Reports – Insights into discrimination and violence against LGBTQ+ people.
• Local LGBTQ+ Advocacy Groups – Reports or testimonials from organizations based in your country can be especially compelling.

3. Documentary Evidence

Even without witness statements, you can provide various forms of supporting evidence.

Evidence of Persecution:

• Medical Records: If you were physically harmed, medical records documenting your injuries can serve as evidence.
• Police Reports: If you reported any incidents to the authorities, include copies of police reports, even if no action was taken (or you were mistreated).
• Social Media Threats: Screenshots of threats or hate messages directed at you on social media platforms can be strong evidence.
• Photos or Videos: Any visual evidence of attacks, protests, or hostile environments targeting LGBTQ+ individuals.

Evidence of Discrimination:

• Employment or Housing Records: Documents showing that you were fired or denied housing due to your sexual orientation.
• Legal Records: Copies of discriminatory laws or policies targeting LGBTQ+ individuals in your home country.

4. Expert Testimony and Letters

Expert opinions and letters can provide authoritative support for your claims.

Sources for Expert Testimony:

• LGBTQ+ Advocacy Groups – Organizations like OutRight Action International or Immigration Equality may provide support or letters attesting to the dangers faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in your country.
• Academics or Researchers – Letters from professors or researchers specializing in LGBTQ+ rights in your region.
• Therapists or Counselors – If you have sought therapy due to trauma related to your persecution, your therapist can provide a statement about your mental health and its connection to your experiences.

5. Building Credibility

USCIS and immigration courts place great importance on your credibility as an applicant.

How to Build Credibility:

• Consistency: Ensure your testimony aligns with the evidence you submit.
• Preparation: Work with an experienced attorney or advocate to prepare for your asylum interview or hearing.
• Honesty: Be truthful, even if certain details are embarrassing or difficult to discuss.

6. Additional Steps

If you cannot obtain certain evidence, explain why. For instance, if it is too dangerous to contact people in your home country or if witnesses fear retaliation, include this in your affidavit.