EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MESSAGE

Greetings,

I am honored to present the 2022 Annual Justice Report, a testament to the unwavering commitment of Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA) in championing the rights of our communities. This year, more than ever, showcased the resilience and tenacity with which we approach our mission.

TRLA’s response was swift and robust during two critical events in 2022: Operation Lone Star (OLS) and the Uvalde school tragedy. These incidents brought to light pressing concerns regarding the allocation of resources and the state’s approach to crises.

While the unpredictability of such emergencies remains beyond our control, TRLA’s dedication to promptly assisting those affected is a testament to our mission. We pride ourselves on not just offering legal aid but going beyond. In Uvalde, our comprehensive support ranged from assisting families with Crime Victims’ Compensation applications to addressing nuanced challenges related to donations and needs-based public benefits. Marking a milestone, on October 18, 2022, the inauguration of TRLA’s Uvalde office, generously supported by the Texas Access to Justice Foundation, ensured strengthened accessibility to our services for the community.

In the OLS situation, TRLA’s role is unparalleled. The complexities of the cases we handle often exceed routine legal concerns. Representing thousands, we have consistently been a beacon of hope for individuals requiring legal defense. In a landscape where border “enforcement” allocations overshadow the funding aimed at safeguarding the legal interests of the underserved, it is imperative to spotlight this incongruence. We remain resolute in advocating for the resources essential to our cause.

The impact of such tragedies on our most vulnerable communities is deeply felt. With your invaluable support, we are poised to address these challenges head-on, understanding that their recurrence is inevitable.

Your generous contributions empower us to make a tangible difference in places like Uvalde. They enable us to stand beside our clients, guiding them both legally and empathetically.

I salute the relentless dedication of the TRLA team, our on-ground partners, our esteemed volunteers, and the indomitable spirit of our clients. Here’s to a year marked by resilience and steadfastness.

Warm regards,

ROBERT DOGGETT

(Edited by ChatGPT)