Ayu Yifru first became involved in the Harrisonburg Chapter of Virginia Organizing when she saw that changes were needed in her community and she wanted to raise her voice. “Virginia Organizing helps to raise the voices of traditionally silenced people – and that’s me!” said Ayu. She is particularly interested in immigration and diversity issues.

Ayu graduated high school this year and will be a pre-med student in the fall. Her views on immigration reform were shaped by her own experience as an undocumented person (until recently) and another experience she had with an immigrant youth in her community.

“A young lady had a miscarriage and did not seek medical attention until very late in the process. She suffered through a lot of pain that she wouldn’t have if she had gone to the hospital. When I asked her why she didn’t go to the hospital, she told me it was because she was undocumented and was afraid she’d be reported and deported.”

Ayu has written letters to the editor, participated in immigration reform activities in the local Chapter, and was involved in the work of the diversity in hiring practices local campaign in Harrisonburg.

“I’m so grateful to Virginia Organizing for working to constantly improve our communities and asking people what we want to change and work on. I’m grateful Virginia Organizing gave me a chance to raise my voice,” said Ayu.

Thank you, Ayu, for raising your voice and helping your community!