October 19, 2018 (NEW YORK) – Proskauer successfully represented Ms. B, a young asylum seeker from Burkina Faso, who was forced to undergo female genital mutilation (FGM) as a young child, suffering lifelong health complications as a result. Our team also sought derivative asylum for Ms. B’s now-husband, Mr. T, whom she fell in love with in Burkina Faso. Ms. B fled her home country in April 2015 with Mr. T to escape both the mounting threat of forced marriage to a much older man against her will and the risk of retaliation and violence towards her because of her outspoken opinion against FGM.

The Proskauer team who won asylum for Ms. B and Mr. T included partner Erika Collins, associates Gwen Lourie, Miriam Dubin, Talya Scolnik and Arianna Lacerte, with mentorship from NYLAG pro bono manager Sara Levine. 

“Learning that our client was granted asylum was exciting, inspiring and a huge relief. With the support of our dedicated pro bono team and armed with guidance from NYLAG, we navigated our way through the asylum application and interview process,” expressed the team. “The client is thrilled that she, her husband, son and soon-to-be newborn baby will be safe in the United States from the violence and persecution she suffered in her home country. This was among the most important and inspiring work we have done thus far as lawyers, and we look forward to continuing to advocate for those who are unable to advocate for themselves.”