President Awan Reaffirms Support for Undocumented Students Amid Policy Changes
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mission College President Dr. Seher Awan shared the following message with the campus community regarding recent immigration policy changes in the United States.
Dear Mission College Community,
As we look forward to the start of the Spring 2025 term, I want to take this moment to strongly reaffirm Mission College’s unwavering commitment to supporting all of our students—including those who are undocumented, Dreamers, LGBTQIA+ students, and everyone who enriches our diverse campus community. Our promise as a California Community College extends well beyond providing a high-quality education; we remain steadfast in creating and protecting an environment where you feel safe, valued, and uplifted to thrive.
It is especially crucial for our undocumented students to know that we stand firmly beside you. To that end, we have established resources and protections designed to support your academic aspirations. We also want to ensure that you are fully aware of California laws and district policies that safeguard your information, guide our employees, and maintain a secure campus environment for everyone. Below are some important resources and guidelines:
Key Resources For Undocumented Students
- The Mission College Dreamer Resources Support Page offers a comprehensive overview of ongoing support, relevant news, UndocuAlly contacts, events, and a list of resources tailored for undocumented students and those from mixed-status backgrounds.
- Immigrants Rising’s “Protecting Student Data in CA" provides insights into federal and state laws that protect student information, restrict immigration enforcement in educational settings, and offer guidance for managing immigration-related activities on campuses.
- The CSAC’s Undocumented Student Data Privacy Memo outlines key policies ensuring the privacy of undocumented student data and offers guidance on handling judicial subpoenas, reaffirming the commitment to protect all students, regardless of immigration status.
- Presidents’ Alliance FERPA overview summarizes federal policies safeguarding personally identifiable information in student records, emphasizing that immigration enforcement does not qualify as a condition for disclosure.
District Policy Regarding Ice-Related Activities
The district policy is that no college or district employee is legally required to comply with any U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) related activities, nor should they. There are no legal consequences for noncompliance. College employees should not share information directly with federal agencies. Any communication or coordination with federal agencies should go through the Chancellor’s Office. If a federal agent arrives on campus, please refer them to the Chancellor’s Office and the Police Department at (408) 299-3233.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS IF APPROACHED BY ICE
All people in the United States, regardless of immigration status, have certain rights and protections under the U.S. Constitution. The Immigrant Legal Resource Center’s (ILRC) Red Cards can help you assert your rights and defend yourself if you are approached by an ICE agent:
- Do Not Open the Door if an immigration agent is knocking. If you are inside your home, show the ILRC Red Card through the window or slide it under the door.
- Do Not Answer Any Questions from an immigration agent if they try to talk to you. You have the right to remain silent.
- Do Not Sign Anything without first speaking to a lawyer. You have the right to legal counsel.
- If you are outside your home (or on campus), show the ILRC Red Card to the agent. Ask if you are free to leave. If they say yes, leave calmly.
You can print your ILRC Red Card in your preferred language.
What Students Should Do If You See Ice On Or Near Campus
Contact District Police at (408) 299-3233 and/or the Vice President of Student Services (408-855-5195.
If you have any questions, please reach out to the Vice President of Student Services via email at [email protected] or [email protected].
You can also call or email our Dreamer Liaison, Lucia Moreno, at (408) 855-5067 or [email protected].
Our Commitment To An Inclusive Campus
While uncertainties may persist, knowing your rights and the resources available to you is essential. Mission College upholds these protections and procedures with unwavering resolve. We are equally committed to ensuring a respectful, inclusive learning environment for every member of our community—where discrimination, harassment, or hatred will never be tolerated, whether based on immigration status, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, disability, or any other aspect of who you are.
At Mission College, we see you, we hear you, and we stand by you. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our Dreamer Resource Center, the Counseling Department, or my office directly. Thank you for choosing Mission College as your educational home—together, we will continue to foster a campus community where everyone can learn and excel without fear.
With unwavering support,
Seher Awan, MPA, MBA, Ed.D.
President, Mission College