Who We Are & Why We Fight

A bold, nonpartisan 501(c)(4) organization dedicated to winning policy change for the world's most vulnerable people — refugees and immigrants in America.

Advocates at a rally
18+ Years of Advocacy

Born From Urgency, Sustained by Purpose

Refugee Affairs Action Fund was established in 2005 when a coalition of legal advocates, community organizers, and formerly displaced individuals recognized that charitable services alone couldn't fix a broken system. Real change required political power.

As a 501(c)(4) social welfare organization, we are uniquely positioned to do what traditional charities cannot: lobby legislators, run issue advocacy campaigns, mobilize voters, and hold elected officials accountable.

We are nonpartisan — but we are never neutral. We stand unequivocally on the side of human rights, due process, and the legal protections that America has promised to those who seek safety here.

501(c)(4) Status

Unlimited advocacy and lobbying. We can fight for policy change directly — no restrictions.

Nonpartisan

We work with Republicans, Democrats, and Independents who share our commitment to human rights.

The North Star That Guides Us

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Our Mission

To advance federal and state policies that protect, empower, and provide pathways for refugees and immigrants — through advocacy, legislation, coalition-building, and public mobilization.

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Our Vision

An America where every refugee and immigrant is treated with full legal dignity — where the law reflects our highest democratic values, not our fears.

Our Advocacy Approach

We deploy every legal tool available to a 501(c)(4) organization to move the needle on policy.

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Direct Lobbying

Our lobbyists work on Capitol Hill and in state legislatures — meeting with elected officials, testifying at hearings, and drafting legislation.

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Grassroots Mobilization

350,000+ supporters. Coordinated phone banks, town halls, and district visits to flood Congressional offices with constituent pressure.

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Public Education

Research reports, op-eds, media campaigns, and digital content to shift public narrative and counter misinformation about refugees and immigrants.

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Legal Strategy

Partnering with immigration lawyers and civil rights groups to challenge unlawful policies and set legal precedents that protect millions.

Our Leadership

Veteran advocates, former refugees, seasoned attorneys, and political strategists — united by one mission.

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Diana Ashford
Executive Director

Former State Dept. refugee coordinator. 22 years in immigration advocacy.

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Rafael Nunez
Director of Policy

Ex-Senate Judiciary staff. Architect of our legislative strategy on asylum reform.

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Leila Watts
Chief Organizer

Built our 350K-person network from the ground up. Specialist in grassroots mobilization.

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James Abebe
Community Liaison

Arrived as a refugee in 2009. Now bridges communities and government on behalf of our members.

Be Part of the Movement

Advocacy works when people power it. Your signature, your voice, and your dollars move mountains in Washington.

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