SAAJCO is a civil rights and legal services nonprofit
dedicated to advancing the civil and human rights of
the South Asian diaspora in the U.S. through
Direct Legal Services, Community Engagement, and Impact Litigation.
Mission
In solidarity with the communities we serve, SAAJCO seeks to advance the civil and human rights of South Asians and persons of South Asian descent in the United States.
SAAJCO aims to work directly with South Asian communities, amplifying their voices to shape legal strategies that promote equity and dignity. Through direct legal services, impactful litigation, and strategic advocacy, we collaborate with our communities to navigate legal challenges and address systemic injustices.
Our mission includes advocating for immigrant rights, economic justice, democratic values, survivor justice, and the eradication of hate, while fostering a culture of inclusivity and resilience.
Our Story
The idea of a dedicated legal services organization to champion the rights of all South Asians in the U.S.—across ethnicity, religion, class, caste, gender identity, sexual orientation, and immigration status—arose in response to heightened anti-immigrant rhetoric and violence in 2017. The founders of SAAJCO presented this vision to the South Asian Bar Association (SABA) Foundation, the charitable arm of SABA North America, which supports access to justice for South Asian communities.
Through the SABA Foundation’s South Asian Legal Impact Initiative, the first step was funding a South Asian Legal Impact Fellow at the Asian American Legal Defense & Education Fund (AALDEF) for 2023–2025.
A needs assessment of community-based organizations serving South Asians nationwide revealed significant gaps in legal services. To address this, the SABA Foundation seed-funded SAAJCO, which was incorporated in July 2024. SAAJCO plans to begin providing legal programs in Spring 2025.
SAAJCO is rooted in diversity, inclusivity, and collaboration. We are building relationships with community partners, establishing a pro bono network of volunteer attorneys, and adopting community-centered practices. Our training materials for trauma-informed, culturally responsive legal services aim to ensure that every individual feels valued and heard.
Our Team
SAAJCO is a labor of love run by staff, working board, volunteers, legal partnerships, community collaborations. Learn more about our ED and Board below: