Three women stand together, each holding a sign

Policy and Advocacy

Policy & Advocacy

LORI advocates at local, national, and global levels to protect immigrant and refugee rights and dismantle systemic barriers.

Our Program

This program is a cornerstone of our mission to create a more inclusive and equitable society for refugees and immigrants in Louisiana. We believe that every individual, regardless of their background, deserves the opportunity to thrive in a supportive and just community.
Our Policy and Advocacy Program is dedicated to addressing systemic barriers, advocating for fair policies, and empowering our community members to have a voice in the legislative process.

Welcoming City

Welcoming City Initiative

We’re working with local leaders to make Louisiana a place where immigrants and refugees feel safe, supported, and included.

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Refugee Protection

Refugee Protection

Our team advocates for safety and security of refugees through direct support, legal protections, and policy change.

Explore Program
World Refugee and Immigrant Day

World Refugee and Immigrant Day

An annual celebration of resilience, culture, and community, highlighting the stories and contributions of immigrants and refugees.

Join the Event
Policy Tracker

Policy Tracker

Stay informed with real-time updates on key policy development & bills affecting immigrant communities.

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Local Advocacy

  • Ending 287(g) Agreements: Advocacy against deputizing local police for federal immigration enforcement.
  • Shutdown ICE Campaigns: Coalition-based efforts to dismantle detention and deportation structures.
  • Fair Chance Hiring : Supported inclusive hiring policies with community partners.
  • Defeat of SB279 : LORI mobilized 620 advocates to defeat SB279, protecting immigrant families and affirming Louisiana’s commitment to inclusivity and fairness.
  • Welcoming Initiative: Community surveys, council engagement, and push for policy adoption in Baton Rouge.

National Advocacy

  • Temporary Protected Status: Advocated TPS for countries like Sudan and Cameroon.
  • Refugee & Asylum Protection: Engaged in national campaigns to uphold protections.
  • Work Authorization: Pushed for 5-year EAD validity.
  • RCUSA Advocacy Days: Took voices directly to D.C.
  • Afghan Adjustment Act: Supported path to permanency for Afghan allies.

Global & Strategic Advocacy

LORI’s advocacy reaches global stakeholders through research, coalition-building, and international engagement.