LETTER FROM THE PROJECT PLANNING AND OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE

TO OUR CLIENTS, PARTNERS, & ALL IOWANS,

Since its launch in 2022, ALL Iowa has worked alongside Afghans, Ukrainians, and the organizations that support them to expand access to legal services across the state. As we reflect on the impact of this collaborative effort and look toward its conclusion, we want to share an important update about the future of the project.

In September 2026, the ALL Iowa project will officially close and suspend its legal services. Our partners, including Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice and Catholic Charities, will continue their vital work providing immigrants and refugees across Iowa with legal support.

ALL Iowa was a collaborative endeavor to provide access to legal services for Afghans and Ukrainians. Our team has successfully processed hundreds of asylum claims, serving thousands of clients since the project’s inception in 2022. Our project partners stand firm in their commitment to:

• Respecting human dignity and accessible legal pathways for newcomers.

• Uplifting legal providers in the Hawkeye state to best support refugees and immigrants.

• Honoring the incredible network of resettlement partners, faith-based organizations, universities, community-based organizations, and the everyday Iowans who have shown what true welcome looks like.

Though our direct services are ending this September, the need for robust legal support remains critical. To ensure families and advocates continue to have access to the guidance they need, we encourage the use of the list of trusted legal networks.

Although our direct legal services are concluding, our digital doors remain open. The ALL Iowa website and our email (info@alliowa.org) will continue to function as resources for the community; please connect with us if you would like to help guide and support the next phase of our collective mission.

We thank you for your unwavering solidarity, your partnership, and your commitment to making Iowa a beacon of hope. We will continue to stand with all immigrants seeking safety and opportunity until pathways to justice, stability, and community are fully realized.

In unity,

Allison McCarthy, Drake University Law School

Ann Naffier, Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice

Suzie Pritchett, Drake University Law School

Amy Weismann, University of Iowa Center for Human Rights

Yer Vang, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Dubuque

"Our need to come to the aid of...people is the main reason I come before you today. Our response to this problem will to a large degree determine whether more lives are lost or saved." 

FORMER IOWA GOVERNOR ROBERT RAY

Congressional hearing testimony regarding refugee legislation | May 24, 1979