Dear Campus Community,
We are deeply troubled by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals recent ruling affirming that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program violates federal law. The decision creates ongoing uncertainties for hundreds of thousands of DACA recipients, including members of our UC Santa Cruz community. We are profoundly disappointed by the decision’s potential impact and are writing to extend our reassurances to all impacted.
Undocumented and DACAmented students can enroll and stay enrolled at UC Santa Cruz. Regardless of this unsettling decision and what may eventually come of it, we are dedicated to ensuring that all students have equal access to a UC Santa Cruz education. While guided by Assembly Bill 21 (AB21) and the UC Statement of Principles of Undocumented Members of the UC Community, we make this steadfast commitment to our students because it is the right thing to do.
Undocumented and DACAmented community members belong here. We are all Banana Slugs. The efforts and contributions of our undocumented and DACAmented students and employees make our community stronger and more vibrant. You are vital to our potential and essential to our success. We believe in you and your future.
Undocumented and DACAmented community members have access to an array of campus resources. The uncertainty of this decision can create a lot of additional stress and anxiety–all things that can make life more challenging. There are valuable resources available on campus to support you. Here are a few that may be particularly helpful:
- Immigration Legal Services: If you or your loved one needs to renew your DACA status, you can make an appointment with a legal services provider for assistance.
- Undocumented Student Services: Undocumented Student Services offers a vast array of support systems for undocumented and DACAmented students.
- Assembly Bill 21 Resources: AB21 was approved and signed by former Governor Brown committing access to higher education for every student regardless of immigration status. This webpage provides information about AB21 resources available to undocumented and DACAmented UC Santa Cruz students.
- Slug Support: Slug Support can help you get connected to a multitude of other campus resources.
Additionally, Counseling and Psychological Services provides assistance for students. Our Employee Assistance Program offers counseling and support to employees. If you need to report discrimination on the basis of protected characteristics, please contact the Office of Equity and Equal Protection.
In these uncertain times, we are certain of this: In accordance with our Principles of Community, our support for our undocumented and DACAmented students and employees is unwavering. Regardless of the immigration status of our community members, UC Santa Cruz will forever champion educational access and personal success.
Sincerely,
Akirah and Anju
Akirah Bradley-Armstrong, Ed.D.
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Success
Anju Reejhsinghani, Ph.D.
Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
