On Nov. 18, Portland State President Wim Wiewel addressed mounting concerns over campus immigration policies by stating that PSU would become a “sanctuary campus.”
The full letter can be read below:
Dear PSU community,
We as a community share a commitment to the protection and support of all of our students,regardless of immigration status, national origin, religion or any similar characteristics. Therefore, we declare that Portland State University is a sanctuary campus dedicated to the principles of equity, diversity and safety.
In recent days, concerns have been raised by some students, faculty and other members of the University community regarding possible immigration law changes and the potential impacts of such changes on our students. In particular, concerns have been raised regarding the safety and well-being of our undocumented students and those covered by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.
Although we don’t know what the future may hold, PSU is a sanctuary campus for its students. That means:
The Portland State University Campus Public Safety Office does not and will not enforce federal immigration laws as is required by state law.
Portland State University will not facilitate or consent to immigration enforcement activities on our campus unless legally compelled to do so or in the event of clear exigent circumstances such as an imminent risk to the health or safety of others.
Portland State University will not share confidential student information, such as immigration status, with the federal government unless required by court order.Together, I ask that we reaffirm our unequivocal commitment to each other. All Portland State students, regardless of national origin or immigration status, should be welcome, safe and able to pursue their higher education as full members of the PSU family. That is who we are as a university and that is who we must remain.
Wim Wiewel
President, Portland State University
