PCC Shares Resources for DACA Students

In a letter to the campus community today, Superintendent-President Rajen Vurdien shared a number of campus resources intended to help students seeking support as the Trump Administration announced the cessation of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. 

Students can turn to PCC's Safe Zones Coalition, offices of finanicial aid and admissions and records, career center, and Mental Health & Wellness Services for assistance with DACA-related issues. 

In his letter, Dr. Vurdien cited a statistic showing that more than 1,100 DACA students enrolled at PCC in Fall 2016. He wrote that the college remains "steadfastly committed" to supporting its students who are impacted by the policy change.

The full letter is below. 

"To the students, faculty, and staff of Pasadena City College:

"In a decision that has brought great concern to all corners of our community, the Trump Administration today has announced the termination of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. This program has helped more than 800,000 undocumented individuals around the country — and more than 1,100 here at PCC — find work, start families, and gain an education. Its cessation is a terrible blow to these young people's dreams to build a brighter future for themselves, their loved ones, and their communities.

"In resolutions passed last year, our Associated Students, Academic Senate, and Board of Trustees confirmed their support for PCC’s undocumented students and the safety and security of our learning environment. Please be assured that today’s announcement has not changed our dedication to these resolutions. Our college remains steadfastly committed to the health and welfare of all our students, and we will defend to the full extent of the law everyone who studies at PCC.

"Today’s announcement is sure to lead to confusion among those directly impacted as well as those wishing to advocate for them. The following campus resources are available to lend assistance in understanding the immediate impacts to our campus community:

• "The Safe Zones Coalition is a group of faculty, staff, and students that are committed to support marginalized communities on campus. On their website you will find:
  • "Frequently Asked Questions regarding DACA,
  • "A list of Safe Zone Allies, individuals at PCC who can help answer questions and provide support for those who need it, and
  • "More information about becoming a member or supporting the work of Safe Zones at PCC
• "The Career Center maintains a clearinghouse of information for undocumented students
• "Our Admissions & Records office has help regarding the California Dream Act, AB540, and other state programs to support immigrant students seeking an education
• "If you feel that this policy change endangers your education or your livelihood, or you have profound concerns for the safety of yourself or someone close to you, personal counselors in Mental Health & Wellness Services can help provide support.

"My colleagues and I will share additional information regarding this policy change as it becomes available.

"It is natural to experience uncertainty and fear during a time of transition. Please know that PCC stands with our students and our mission of providing a high-quality education to anyone that enters our doors. Our community shares strong bonds, and we will come together in solidarity to defend all members of our PCC family.

"Sincerely, Rajen Vurdien, Ph.D."

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