President Robert Kelly issued guidance on interacting with U.S. Customs & Immigration Enforcement (ICE) in a Sept. 4 email addressed to staff and faculty.
The instruction comes amidst fears over increased ICE activity in the Pacific Northwest and after a summer of anti-ICE protests in Portland.
The email outlines how to communicate with ICE officials and other federal agencies in the event of immigration enforcement on The Bluff, though the University continues to predict a “low likelihood” of such actions, according to the email.
Staff and faculty that suspect ICE or other agency activity on campus with an intent to enforce immigration laws are advised to contact the Department of Campus Safety and Emergency Management at 503-943-4444.
While waiting for Campus Safety to arrive, staff and faculty are advised to ask for a judicial warrant if agents attempt to enter nonpublic areas.
If agents request information or documents regarding a community member’s immigration or citizenship status, staff and faculty should decline to respond and wait for Campus Safety to arrive, according to the email.
Kelly also reaffirms the University’s “solidarity” with UP community members of all immigration statuses.
“We are committed to promoting the safety and well-being of all who live, study and work on The Bluff,” Kelly said. “Together, as one university family, we cultivate a community of care, compassion, welcome, hospitality and interdependence.”
Maggie Dapp is the News and Managing Editor at The Beacon. She can be reached at dapp26@up.edu.
