Asian Pacific American Legal Resource Center

What began in 1998 with a group of passionate AAPI attorneys and law students and a $500 grant to launch a Multilingual Legal Helpline has grown into a lifeline for thousands.

Today, the Asian Pacific American Legal Resource Center (APALRC) provides culturally competent legal services to over 1,000 individuals each year in the metropolitan DC area—offering critical support in:

- Immigration Relief & Citizenship

- Domestic Violence & Crime Victim Legal Support

- Housing & Tenant Rights Advocacy

- Anti-Asian Hate Support

- Multilingual Legal Helpline

This past year alone, our small but dedicated team took on 400 legal cases, responded to over 600 hotline calls, and hosted 50 outreach events—ensuring our community members know their rights and have someone to turn to when they need help the most.

For over two decades, we’ve stood beside AAPI individuals and families in the Capital region—especially those navigating language barriers, poverty, and systemic injustice—with a clear mission to protect rights, ensure safety, and empower community members to thrive.

One Story. A Thousand Reasons to Give.

“A.” came to the United States a few years ago as a researcher on a work visa, seeking new professional opportunities. While in the U.S., she met “M.”—charismatic and persistent. They began a relationship, and “A.” became pregnant with their child. When she decided to continue the pregnancy, “M.” became violent.

One of his assaults was so severe that “A.” was rushed to the emergency room with life-threatening injuries. She later testified against “M.” at his criminal trial and was granted a U visa, a form of immigration relief for survivors of violent crimes who assist in prosecution.

But her immigration status did not shield her from continued abuse. From jail, M. sent “A.” dozens of letters—some professing love, others threatening her safety. He also tried to gain custody of their child, continuing his efforts to control and intimidate her from behind bars.

That’s when “A.” turned to the Asian Pacific American Legal Resource Center.

With APALRC’s help, A. was able to legally stop the harassment and block “M.’s” attempts to gain custody. Our legal team ensured her rights were protected and gave her the support she needed to move forward in safety.

Together, We Can Champion Justice

Your support fuels our mission to advance equal access to justice for AAPI communities—ensuring that no one is denied safety, dignity, or legal protection because of their limited English proficiency, immigration status, or economic hardship.

With your partnership, we can reach more people, strengthen our services, and remain a trusted advocate for AAPI communities when they need it most.

Donate today. Be a champion for justice.