For more than 30 years, SEPA Mujer has provided culturally-specific services to immigrant women and families across Long Island. Founded in 1993 by immigration attorney Elizabeth Newman, the organization was created in response to the growing Central American immigrant population in Suffolk County. Newman recognized that many women seeking legal assistance were also survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and other challenges.
Today, SEPA Mujer provides free immigration legal services, case management, housing support, health resources and community education. Their immigration services assist both crime survivors and non-survivors with issues including U visas, T visas, VAWA, green cards, work permits and other immigration applications. They also have a transitional housing program for immigrants fleeing violence or needing housing. SEPA Mujer also offers support to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and trafficking. Counseling is offered to any female 12 years old and older.
SEPA Mujer’s culturally-specific approach is central to their work. The staff are bilingual in Spanish and English, and many are immigrants or first and second generation Americans. “Having that experience is one of the pivotal things in the work that we do because it helps us provide trauma-informed care” says Abigail Esquivias, SEPA Mujer’s Program Officer. That shared experience helps the organization understand the cultural and practical barriers many clients face.
One of the barriers is language access. Immigration forms, online portals, and much of the information about changing policies are available primarily in English. SEPA Mujer helps bridge that gap by explaining complex information in Spanish and helping clients understand what they are being asked to provide. There is especially a huge gap in language access in the healthcare space. “Family members cannot interpret for the individual appropriately,” said Abigail.
Transportation is another significant challenge, particularly in Suffolk County, where traveling between communities by public transit can take hours. For families sharing one vehicle or unable to afford taxis or rideshares, getting to court appointments, healthcare providers and other services can be difficult. SEPA Mujer provides transportation, court accompaniment, and emotional support.
There are also growing concerns about housing and food insecurity, and fear surrounding immigration enforcement. Some young people have told staff they worry about their parents being separated from them. SEPA Mujer connects families with local food pantries, housing resources, and other community partners.
Latinx communities are diverse, with different cultures, traditions, food, sayings, dances, and experiences. SEPA Mujer emphasizes and celebrates the diversity represented within the community and strives to recognize each person's individual identity.
How to get help
For more information about programs and resources, contact SEPA Mujer at 631-980-2555 or visit their website. You can also call the Ayuda Latina Hotline at 833-762-9832, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.