News

It takes minutes to cross a border, but years to navigate the legal system. Here is what that journey actually looks like for our neighbors in Southwest Detroit. (abajo en español) The Common Misconception When we see news about immigration, we often see images of borders, airports, or buses. It gives the impression that the “journey” ends the moment a

Every gift you make opens a door to justice. As the year draws to a close, we invite you to reflect on the power of community and the importance of justice for all of our neighbors. At the Southwest Detroit Immigrant and Refugee Center (SWIRC), we see every day how essential legal aid can be a lifeline for those in

“Whatever you did for the least of these, you did for me.” At SWIRC, we see miracles happen every day in our clinic, but we can’t do this work alone. Today, we are celebrating a massive act of kindness from our friends Kris and Dave (and their dog, Remington!) and the team at Lingua Franca. Through their exclusive clothing collaboration,

Today, on Giving Tuesday, we’re inviting everyone who believes in SWIRC’s mission to take one simple, powerful step: invest in the next 10 years of justice. This year is especially meaningful. We’re celebrating a milestone that you helped create — a full decade of showing up for neighbors seeking safety, stability, and dignity. And we’re honoring the 25,000 people who

One of Michigan’s Most Dedicated Pro Bono Immigration Attorneys Since March 2024, SWIRC attorney Debbie Bellovich has quietly become one of the most committed pro bono volunteers in Michigan’s legal community—contributing an extraordinary 25 hours per week of completely free legal services to immigrants at SWIRC. With over 1,300 hours of pro bono work in just her first year, Debbie

The five toughest hurdles for immigrants in Detroit, and the support that makes a difference In Detroit and across the country, immigrants are facing a harsher reality than ever before. At SWIRC, our mission is to support and empower the people who make our city vibrant. Our clients are those striving to build new lives amid daunting challenges. Here are

An asylum victory reminds us why hope, courage, and community matter. In 2018, Nicaragua descended into turmoil as peaceful protests for democracy were met with government violence. Among those who courageously stood up for change was the Arce family, small business owners from Managua who supported university students during the demonstrations by providing food, first aid, and hope amid repression.

The Indian Village community came together in a big way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and support immigrant families in Detroit. Local leaders organized Ritmos y Raíces (“Rhythms and Roots”), a lively neighborhood fiesta filled with music, food, and celebration — all benefiting the Southwest Detroit Immigrant Resource Center (SWIRC). Thanks to the generosity of the organizers, sponsors, and guests, the event

Immigrants and refugees are central to Detroit’s economic resurgence and vitality. Their contributions to small business growth, job creation, and workforce stability have helped reverse decades of decline and keep the city moving forward. Small Business and Job Growth Immigrants own a significant share of Detroit’s small businesses, especially in neighborhoods like Southwest Detroit. Programs from organizations such as Global

This fall, the Southwest Detroit Immigrant and Refugee Center (SWIRC) is celebrating a big milestone—we’ve helped more than 25,000 clients since 2015! That’s 25,000 people who have walked through our doors with questions, worries, and hopes for a brighter future. And we’re honored to have been part of their journey. Day after day, our team and volunteers work hard to