Dear Pomona College Community,
Pomona stands united with all DACA and undocumented students. As I’ve said to members of Congress and to our community, Dreamers’ aspirations speak to the highest ideals of the United States and a permanent path forward for these young people, including our students, must be one of the highest priorities for leaders in Washington, D.C.
Yet news continues to emerge from the nation’s capital that a deal for Dreamers remains elusive and federal proposals center on building walls, criticizing immigrants and carrying out raids on vulnerable communities. In the face of this, I want to share with you an update about our ongoing support for DACA and undocumented students. We, and more than 70 other member institutions of the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, have signed onto an amicus brief [pdf] supporting plaintiffs who are challenging the Trump Administration’s decision to end DACA. This “friend of the court” brief filed last week presents compelling evidence that DACA plays a critical role at Pomona and beyond, enabling students to successfully pursue a college degree while contributing significantly to their campuses, communities and the country.
For those of you who are directly affected by the uncertainty and deeply troubling environment we are experiencing, I want to remind you that support and resources are available to you, including legal resources through the Sagehen Pro Bono Network, emergency grants, mental health and wellness counseling, and career counseling through the CDO. Additional resources can be found on the Immigration Advocates website. If you have specific questions or concerns, please contact Acting Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students Janet Smith Dickerson.
At Pomona, we have an enduring commitment to all our community members and for others outside our campus and across the world. Please join me in supporting all those who need our help at this time.
With best wishes,
Gabi