After a yearlong mission trip and a return through our immigration internship program, Janice Knight-Nieves now serves the community as a DOJ Accredited Immigration Representative. This month, we highlight her journey, from service abroad to advocacy at home. Her work reflects a deep commitment to faith and justice, and a belief that every person deserves to be seen, supported, and empowered on the path to citizenship.
Can you tell us about your current role at La Esperanza and how long you’ve been with the organization?
I am one of the DOJ Accredited Immigration Representatives at La Esperanza Inc. and have been accredited since the beginning of last year; I am getting close to the 2 year mark (it’s crazy how time goes by so fast) but I originally started working at La Esperanza back in 2019 as a Community Navigator. I left around September 2020 during the Covid pandemic because I went on a year-long mission trip. After doing missions and an additional missional program, I was reached out to in 2022 about an immigration internship that L.E. was offering, and I said “yes”, and have been at L.E. again ever since Sept 2022!
What motivates you personally to be part of La Esperanza’s mission, and why do you believe it’s crucial for Delaware’s Latino and immigrant communities?
As a Christian, I truly believe and know in my heart that the Lord has called me to come back to La Esperanza Inc., with a clearer vision of my calling and vocation, which is to serve and love people. I grew up in Georgetown; Sussex County is my home, and I have seen how vital it is to have an organization with a heart and a focus on serving our Latino community. On missions, our first partnership/mission experience was with World Relief in Chicago. It’s as if I was able to reconcile my passion with this experience and realize that I could have a place in this area, even though, being honest, I had forgotten about it as we continued on our mission trip and navigated the challenges of coming back to the U.S. after the mission trip. I believe God never forgot and provided me with this mission in Georgetown, DE, through La Esperanza Inc.!
Can you share a memorable experience or project you’ve worked on at La Esperanza that has made a significant impact on the community?
I was handed the baton to teach the citizenship class and very much walk alongside clients who are interested and eligible to become citizens. I believe one of the memories I treasure is going up to Philly with our clients to their interview to either represent them or at times, interpret for them, and seeing the smiles on their faces when they’re told that they have passed their interview and all that is left to do is wait for their oath ceremony.
Teaching is one of my favorite parts of the job, and seeing the progress of each student; it is inspirational to see them work hard and invest in themselves to accomplish their dream of becoming U.S citizens!
How has your work at La Esperanza shaped your understanding and interaction with the local Latino and immigrant communities?
Growing up with my parents as spiritual leaders in our community, I have always been serving in different ways and aware of the hardships in our Latino community. I believe this work has enriched and shaped my understanding of the complexities of immigration law and policy. For me, the knowledge and wisdom I’ve gained has only stirred and produced greater empathy for my community and an ongoing passion to work diligently to serve my community.
What do you think makes La Esperanza unique, and why is it an important resource for the Latino and immigrant communities in Delaware?
The vision is unique. We exist to serve our community at no cost or low cost, in complete consideration and service of our community. Our presence, focus, and work are important and vital, and bridge gaps on so many levels in our community. I am honored to be a part of this mission!
What would you like to share with community members who may be feeling insecure right now?
I encourage our community to consult with La Esperanza and receive guidance and legal counsel. I encourage our community members not to lose faith and to trust in God, and pray for reform, but also look into how they can impact their community as well. Everyone has a voice, and I want them to know that La Esperanza continues to remind their clients that there is hope in the midst of adversity!