Finalist
Ravi Ragbir
Re-imagining freedom for people of color and immigrants targeted by unjust criminal and immigration systems by using the defense committee model to expand the idea of Sanctuary beyond physical space
- Year
- 2021
- Sector
- Civics
- Borough
- Brooklyn
Since his release from ICE custody, Ravi has worked tirelessly to stop deportations and expose a system confusing even to experts in the field of immigration rights. While leading protests and participating in vigils and civil disobedience around 26 Federal Plaza — ICE’s HQ — Ravi envisioned a plan to partner non-citizens with citizens who accompany them during immigration proceedings. In parallel, he built a legal clinic for those without representation. Ravi’s extensive network now includes committed citizens who rally, garner media attention, and re-imagine “protection” for those at risk of deportation, educating the public and helping to keep thousands of people in the U.S.