For immigration lawyers, the daily work is inherently tied to advocacy. We are on the front lines, witnessing firsthand the profound impact of immigration policies, both outdated and newly implemented. From assisting asylum seekers and reuniting families to supporting Afghan nationals in dire situations and navigating complex business immigration, the need for immigration reform in the U.S. is undeniable. The compounded pressures of recent global events and ongoing backlogs have intensified our roles as advocates, pushing us to our limits. The repeated setbacks in legislative efforts for immigration reform can be disheartening and lead to exhaustion. Yet, the urgency remains; our clients and communities depend on our unwavering commitment. However, to sustain this commitment and advocate effectively, prioritizing self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Reflecting on years of practice since 2006, critical milestones underscore the constant need for resilience and advocacy. The economic recession of 2009, the comprehensive immigration reform bill discussions in 2013, the executive actions of 2014, the tumultuous presidential election cycles of 2015-2016, the challenges of the 2017-2020 era, and the unprecedented global health concerns of 2020-2021 – each period has presented unique obstacles and demands. These milestones, shared by many in the field, highlight a continuous journey of advocacy amidst ever-evolving complexities. It was around 2014 that the concept of “care advocacy tools” began to gain traction, recognizing the importance of well-being for sustained and effective advocacy in demanding fields like immigration law. This period emphasized the need for practitioners to integrate self-care as a fundamental aspect of their professional toolkit.
As we move forward, the need for robust advocacy for a path to citizenship and comprehensive immigration reform remains critical. However, this ongoing commitment must be balanced with a conscious effort towards personal well-being. The global pandemic served as a stark reminder of our interconnectedness. It underscored the importance of a holistic perspective on improving lives, starting with our own. The realization that ‘love,’ in its broadest sense encompassing self-compassion and care, is foundational to our ability to serve others effectively has become increasingly clear.
This realization stems from the experiences of navigating work-from-home transitions, remote schooling, and relentless deadlines during periods of lockdown. The pandemic emphasized the critical need to extend grace to ourselves, to prioritize self-love, and to proactively recharge – not as an occasional indulgence, but as a daily practice. Self-care, often perceived as a simple concept, emerges as a powerful advocacy tool, akin to an oxygen mask. To effectively advocate for immigration reform and navigate the ongoing challenges in 2022 and beyond, each practitioner needs to operate from a place of strength and vitality, which begins with prioritizing personal well-being.
Organizations like the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) have recognized this vital need, establishing resources like the AILA Lawyer Well-Being Committee. This committee offers valuable resources and platforms for engagement, underscoring the profession-wide recognition of self-care as integral to a successful and sustainable practice. Engaging with such resources and dedicating time to personal well-being is a strategic investment in one’s professional effectiveness.
Integrating self-care into the daily routine, even in small increments of five to ten minutes, can yield significant benefits. These moments can be used for quiet reflection, deep breathing exercises, or simply engaging in enjoyable activities like reading. Self-care encompasses a wide spectrum of activities, from physical pursuits like walking or sports to creative outlets like art. Personal anecdotes, such as discovering joy in birdwatching and nature photography, illustrate the diverse and accessible forms self-care can take.
Ultimately, prioritizing activities that bring joy is paramount. A rejuvenated and joyful self creates a positive ripple effect, influencing interactions and enhancing overall effectiveness. Imagine the collective impact of thousands of immigration lawyers operating from a place of well-being and positive energy. This collective shift, rooted in individual self-care, can be a powerful catalyst for change. Therefore, embracing self-care is not merely a personal benefit; it is a strategic and potent advocacy tool for the immigration law community, enabling us to collectively achieve more in 2022 and beyond. Let us adopt this approach as a collective strategy and witness the transformative impact it can have.
