With the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) begining immigration raids on Sunday, the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) is providing resources to inform undocumented students of their rights to keep them safe.
Just under eight percent of the district’s student body are undocumented immigrants, which is around 11,500 people, according to a report on Dreamers by the LACCD in 2017.
“The LACCD is committed to supporting all of its students, irrespective of immigration status, who seek to receive a quality education at any of the LACCD’s nine campuses,” according to their website. “We understand that the actual and perceived threats of immigration enforcement actions against our undocumented students and potentially their families could adversely affect our students’ sense of well-being and ability to learn. That is why we are focused on addressing these concerns and creating a supportive environment for all members of our diverse student body.”
To help make the resources known, the LACCD sent an email to students through their .edu email accounts and posted a link on their social media.
#KnowYourRights #LACCD students/families know your rights if @ICEgov asks ur immigration status. Use this guide home, work, car, wallet @LACityCollege @PierceCollegeCA @LAMC_EAGLES @EastLACollege @LASCCampus @LAValleyCollege @LATTC @lahcedu @westlacollege https://t.co/jegYEbUjhX pic.twitter.com/PYK7zdsosx
— Los Angeles Community College District (@laccd) June 21, 2019
The email included the same link and had a message that said, “This is an important reminder to all LACCD students and their families that it is very important for you to know your rights if you encounter an Immigration and Customs Enforcement Officer or any law enforcement officer questioning you about your immigration status.”
One of the resources provided is a guide on the do’s and don’ts if you are asked about your immigration status by ICE. They recommend you print it out and keep it with you. A PDF version can be found here.
The LACCD also asks that you contact the Chancellor’s Office or local sheriffs immediately if you see federal immigration enforcement officials on campus.
Resources
For immediate concerns, call 213-891-2025.
A PDF of the know your rights card can be downloaded here.
Other resources include: