Stories of Strength: Julia’s Journey Supporting LGBTQ+ Asylum Seekers
Today, we're spotlighting Julia Mejia-Moreno, whose journey to Oasis reflects a deep empathy and connection to the immigrant experience. Born and raised in California's Coachella Valley, she grew up surrounded by the strength, resilience, and warmth of a close-knit immigrant community. Through her work, Julia draws on those roots, bringing both compassion and courage to help transform lives, one client at a time. We had the chance to sit down with Julia and hear about the experiences that drive her to do this vital work, along with a few personal stories about life beyond the office.
MS: What draws you to this work - supporting LGBTQ+ asylum seekers?
JMM: The people and their stories draw me to this work. Many of our clients’ stories remind me of the stories I heard growing up in my own family and community. I always had a strong desire to learn and try to understand why it was so hard for some people to adjust status in the U.S. I know now that the Immigration system in this country is inherently flawed and unjust, but I still want to help make an impact in people’s lives even if it’s on a personal level.
NS: You were born and raised in the Coachella Valley. What was it like growing up there?
JMM: Growing up in the Coachella Valley was a very unique experience. I grew up in the Eastern Coachella Valley (ECV) which is a predominantly Mexican and Central American farm worker community. I remember spending a lot of time outdoors with my family; raising chickens, playing with stray dogs, helping my parents garden, going fishing and swimming in local creeks, and also picking an abundance of veggies and fruits from the fields that surrounded us (even though it was technically not permitted). Everyone in my community looked like me, they spoke Spanish, and were 1st or 2nd generation Immigrants. I had a strong sense of belonging growing up in the ECV.
MS: Is there a case that stands out to you during your time at Oasis?
JMM: There is not one specific case that stands out to me, but the ones that have impacted me the most are of our Trans clients. Most of the hardships that they’ve endured are unimaginable! I am always struck by their resiliency to survive and thrive despite everything that they’ve been through and continue to face.
NS: During your free time, you enjoy watching food docuseries. Do you have any recommendations?
JMM: “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown.” It involves food, travel, people’s stories, which is everything I love! It’s a travel show but with a critical lens. Rest in peace Anthony Bourdain!
MS: You also enjoy concerts, and you’ve been to quite a few. What’s the best concert you’ve been to?
JMM: I recently went to Puerto Rico to see Bad Bunny perform his most recent album Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va Pasar Mañana. The crowd, the energy, my friends, and Bad Bunny’s performance were incredible! It was an experience I’ll never forget.
NS: What are you looking forward to in the coming year, either personally, professionally, or both?
JMM: Something I’m looking forward to in the coming year are my travel plans. I am currently planning to travel to the East Coast for a bachelorette party and a wedding! This will be my first time traveling to the East Coast, so I’m excited to finally visit and explore new States.
With a grounding in empathy and a vision for change, Julia embodies the spirit of Oasis Legal Services. Her passion for supporting LGBTQ+ asylum seekers reflects not only a commitment to justice but also a personal journey to understand and reshape the immigrant experience in the U.S. Whether working directly with clients or exploring new parts of the country, Julia is energized for the year ahead and ready to make a lasting impact. We’re thrilled to have Julia on our team and grateful for the passion and heart she brings to Oasis each day.
Published October 28, 2024