Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project (ILAP) is Maine’s only state-wide immigration legal services organization, dedicated to advancing justice and equity for immigrants and their families. As a specialized legal advocacy group, ILAP stands out for its comprehensive approach, combining direct legal assistance with community education and systemic reform efforts to protect the rights of Maine’s immigrant population.
ILAP’s mission centers on helping immigrants find safety from violence and persecution, keep families together, and fully participate in their communities and the economy. Through a combination of direct representation, outreach, and policy advocacy, the organization serves thousands of Mainers annually, including immigrants, their families, and U.S. citizen neighbors who benefit from their work.
Services Offered
- Direct Legal Services
- Community Education
- Systemic Advocacy
- Advocacy Priorities Development
- Campaigns and Coalitions
- Impact Litigation
- Red Card Information and Assistance
- Pro Bono Legal Support
- Outreach Programs
ILAP provides services statewide from offices in Portland and Lewiston, and offers resources in multiple languages including English, French, Portuguese, Spanish, Somali, Haitian Creole, and Arabic. The organization is recognized for its advocacy achievements, such as supporting protective state legislation and conducting oversight of immigration enforcement practices.
