Concerns have been raised throughout the nation regarding changes in immigration policy and the possible impact on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Whittier College has released the following statement about DACA students:
Whittier College supports the view of the Association of American Universities that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program “should be upheld, continued, and expanded.”
Young people who were brought to this country by their parents and who’ve been raised in the United States deserve to have the same opportunities as their peers. We welcome and embrace all students regardless of citizenship status. Moreover, Whittier College and our country will stand to benefit from educating young people who, despite incredible odds, have persevered in their educational goals and display great academic promise. These young scholars represent the future of our country.
At the moment there is no consensus and no official definition detailing what constitutes a “sanctuary” campus. Whittier College’s position is that we will not assist federal immigration agencies in the investigation of the immigration status of any of our students or share confidential information pertaining to our students unless required to do so by a valid warrant, court order, or emergency health and safety concerns.
Whittier College will continue to monitor policy developments and opportunities to further demonstrate our commitment to DACA students and to oppose any efforts to thwart access to higher education for all.
