Scholar Fund is part of the Excluded No More Campaign, organizing to build a financial safety net for individuals who are currently ineligible for unemployment benefits in Washington State. This movement started soon after we witnessed hundreds of our community members lose their jobs during a worldwide pandemic, many of them immigrants. Thousands of people in our community are excluded from vital benefits, even in times of urgent need. 

The UI Coalition continues building a communication strategy, keeping community members at the forefront and informed, and pushing for a policy that rewrites how we include immigrants in our state.

New York’s Excluded Workers Fund and Colorado’s Left-Behind Workers Fund are examples of how to challenge systemic barriers and move towards more inclusive and holistic policies. 

The UI Coalition is preparing for another legislative session in hopes of advising and pushing forward a bill that gets approved by the House and Senate. Until then, statewide efforts continue to highlight the importance of unemployment insurance by sharing stories from community members. WAISN’s yearly Immigrant Refugee Advocacy Day on January 31, 2025 will also bring hundreds of people to the capital to advocate for unemployment insurance. 

We’re still buzzing with excitement from the Cultural Leadership Fellowship (CLF) premiere of JOURNEY ABROAD: AN UNDOCU STORY! With over 200 community members in attendance, the event was a true testament to the power of connection and storytelling. The joy, deep reflection, and sense of community were felt by everyone, from those who traveled from afar to local supporters. Thanks to all who joined us for this amazing event!

Want to get involved in the fight for immigrant rights? Attend Immigrant Refugee Advocacy Day with WAISN on January 31, 2025! Hundreds will be talking with representatives across all districts! Register today!

Every resident in Washington state can buy health and dental insurance on Washington Healthplanfinder, including undocumented immigrants!

Sign up by January 15, 2025.

Villa Comunitaria is hosting a Tenants in Action workshop series on Small Claims Court and Security Deposit Refunds. This series aims to help participants understand the small claims process and access valuable resources. Spanish translation will be available!