Dear Mission College Community,
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