When I think of my life as a Sri Lankan political refugee immigrant living in the United States, the word “privilege” is a word that shapes the fabric of my life. “Privilege” is an overused word permeating our modern vernacular and is often tethered to the existence of white or rich individuals. And yet, it is privilege through education that opened doors, which granted my father the opportunity to escape an active civil war and genocide of the Sri Lankan Tamils, providing an escape plan for his wife, daughters and generations yet to come. Many who see me or learn of my story often assume I had little to no privilege in my life, or I suffered as a result of being a woman of color and an immigrant whose family was forced to flee their home and uproot their lives to move to Africa, and then eventually to the United States, a place where many now feel lacks the opportunities it once provided. But nothing could be further from my truth. At its core, my privilege comes from my very first teachers and the most powerful advocates in my life: my father and mother. I recognize, daily, the opportunities they provided for me by taking the risks they took in the betterment of our lives. In turn, through my work, I hope to continue that trend (albeit a different kind) for my clients who often come to me during the worst moments of their lives when their physical and mental suffering has reached its peak. Serving clients in my practice as a medical malpractice and civil rights attorney forces me to face the everyday reality that gun violence, cruel mistreatment of people in custody, poverty, oppression, social injustice, and the inability to advocate for one’s health and body are not merely symptoms of developing countries but also exist right here in the United States. Revolutions require academics, fighters, advocates, visionaries and campaigners. It requires that people use the tools of their oppressors to fight back. I know this, not because I can abstractly understand these constructs, but because my family experienced that amplified and tragic reality in our homeland. My work has allowed me to use all these life experiences – generational trauma, opportunity and legal education – to influence the system and fight for people with little or no power against powerful institutions. I am a living example of the difference an unwavering advocate can make at a pivotal time in one’s life. I am deeply grateful to be working in a profession where I can be that advocate for individuals who simply need someone to help them fight their battles. This revolution renews each day when we walk into our offices, sit down at our computers, orate in a courtroom and converse with our clients. Don’t ever forget the privilege and power we wield. I know I don’t. I am deeply grateful to be working in a profession where I can be that advocate for individuals who simply need someone to help them fight their battles.” 15 Trial Lawyer | Winter 2025
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