Bethany joined our Mexico Project this December from the Florence Immigrant and Refugee Rights Project (the “Florence Project”) in Arizona, where she is the Managing Attorney in their Children’s Program.

As many attorneys may not be aware of sabbatical programs offered at their organizations, we’ve asked Bethany to answer a few questions about how she got a sabbatical at all, and her decision to volunteer at the Rhizome Center in Guadalajara.

Where are you from, Bethany?
I’m originally from the Detroit area, but currently live in Arizona.  

What’s your role at the Florence Project?
I’m a Managing Attorney in our Children’s Program. Our team represents immigrant children who are detained by the government, as well as children who are released, in removal proceedings, and in juvenile court cases.

What were you doing before you started there?
I worked in northern Arizona as well as the Navajo Nation providing free legal services to low-income people. 

Why have you asked to take a sabbatical from your current job?
I do feel like I need a break after three years doing this high-stakes, emotionally-charged work (that I love).   

What is the Florence Project’s policy on taking leave from work?
We can take a paid sabbatical after three years employment. Self-care is an important part of our workplace culture, so we are encouraged to make use of this benefit.  

Why did you choose Guadalajara and The Rhizome Center for Migrants?
I visited Guadalajara this year for the first time, and instantly loved it.  It’s among my favorite cities in Mexico. I knew I wanted to return to Guadalajara during my sabbatical, but I didn’t want to be idle. The Rhizome Center’s mission and work interested me, as I would like to learn more about the experiences of deportees and returnees in Mexico.  

What are you looking forward to most this December, when you start your sabbatical with us?
I’m looking forward to meeting the people the Rhizome Center works with, as well as the staff and other volunteers.  

The photo, above, was taken at our workshop on waivers this December 2019. During her volunteership, Bethany also had the opportunity to visit a shelter and learn about the on-the-ground migrant experience, in addition to taking part in an organized tour of the U.S. Consulate General in Guadalajara.

It was truly a treat to have her, and we thank her for generously supporting our cause and local work. It is our hope that this experience has only enriched her understanding of migration and return migration, as well as the far-reaching impact of U.S. immigration policies on the region.

Attorneys on sabbatical are encouraged to seek meaningful professional and personal experiences during their career break. Attorneys interested in learning more about sabbatical opportunities at The Rhizome Center for Migrants in Mexico should contact us at connect@rhizomecenter.org.