Israel came to the United States after facing mounting threats and violence in El Salvador — not because he wanted to leave, but because staying meant putting his life at risk. A young university graduate with dreams of joining the police force, Israel believed in creating change from within. But what he discovered was a deeply embedded culture of corruption — one that demanded his silence and submission.
A Dream Challenged by Violence and Corruption
Israel grew up in a small town in Usulután, El Salvador, raised mostly apart from his parents, who had moved to the U.S. in search of economic stability. After completing a university degree in port operations, he decided to follow his dream and become a police officer — hoping to bring integrity and structure to a broken system.
However, his aspirations quickly turned into a nightmare. Even before officially joining the force, gang members began threatening him for "trying to make war" against them. More troubling still, police officers he looked up to told him bluntly that corruption was simply "how things work" — and if he wasn’t willing to fall in line, he’d be putting himself and his family in danger.
“Here we have to accept that we live in a bad country. We disguise ourselves as good, but in reality... we're not.” one high-ranking officer admitted to him.
Eventually, the threats turned physical — gang members began patrolling in front of his home, showing weapons, and ultimately shooting at his door in a terrifying act of intimidation. When Israel called the local police for help, no one ever came.
From Despair to Legal Asylum — Twice
After the shooting, Israel’s mother insisted he come to the U.S., and within two months, he had left everything behind — including the dream of a better El Salvador. He arrived in America and began the long, uncertain process of seeking asylum.
But even that path wasn’t easy.
Israel’s case faced setbacks, including an appeal from the U.S. government after he initially won. Yet with persistence, detailed evidence, and expert legal guidance, Israel not only won his asylum case once — he won it twice, in front of two different judges.
“When the first lawyer told me I had no case, I thought it was all over” he recalled. “But here, they did tell me, 'We have a chance, we can move forward' — and we won.”
Building a New Life with Gratitude
Today, Israel lives in the U.S. as a legal resident, working toward permanent residency and eventually, citizenship. He’s rebuilding his life in a place where he can walk the streets safely, learn English, and dream freely again.
He still misses home. But for the first time in years, he feels peace.
“We just wanted a chance. We're not here to take anything away from anyone. We're hardworking, determined people—and I'm proof that it's possible.”
A Message to Others in His Shoes
To anyone considering seeking asylum, Israel offers this advice:
- Find a representative you trust: “Un buen abogado hace toda la diferencia.”
- Be honest and organized: Bring evidence, show up prepared, and collaborate fully.
- Don’t let fear stop you: Even when others say it’s impossible — keep going.
“We all sleep better in our own homes. We love our country. But for safety, for opportunity, we're here. And we only ask for a chance to prove ourselves.”
You don’t have to face this journey alone. If you or someone you love is seeking asylum or immigration help, we’re here to listen, guide, and fight for your future.
Get compassionate, expert legal help today
You deserve to feel safe — and to finally call this place home.