In 2020 CDM supported two au pairs, Sandra and Tatiana, in suing their host family, Michaele C. Samuel and Adam Ishaeik, for human trafficking and forced labor. And today, I’m happy to announce that we just won a huge victory in court: the judge denied the defendants’ latest attempts to dismiss the case and our clients’ claims. This means our clients’ case is moving forward, and that Tatiana and Sandra will have their day in court in January of next year.
After a six-year wait, this is amazing news for our clients and for all au pairs who have experienced the same kind of abuse and exploitation in the J-1 work visa program that often masquerades as a cultural exchange opportunity. It is also an important reminder that in a country of laws, all workers have rights — no matter their nationality or immigration status — and deserve access to justice.
Today, I was proud to stand with Sandra in the courthouse as she got the news alongside our co-counsel Chris Ryon of KSC Law, CDM Legal and Policy Director Julia Solórzano, CDM Development Director Kristen Lionetti, former CDM fellow Naomi Jennings.
We will continue to stand alongside Sandra and Tatiana in their fight for justice. I hope you’ll stand with us as well.