Last week, the federal government announced that the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program will be rescinded. With this decision, thousands of students and others who contribute to the rich cultural fabric of our nation face potential deportation if Congress does not identify a solution for them to stay in the country.
As a community of artists, educators, and students, CCA continues to stand firmly against the repeal of this program.
Diversity is at the heart of innovation. At CCA we live for originality and creativity, both of which are fueled by the distinct voices of our students regardless of their immigration status. There are DREAMers who have and continue to make new art and inspire our community here at CCA every day and I am writing to reiterate that we stand by them.
CCA does not share information with law enforcement regarding the immigration status of undocumented or DACA status students and we will not without a subpoena. We are continuing to work with other member institutions at the Association of American Colleges & Universities to advocate for immigration policies and programs that ensure protections for the approximately 800,000 individuals who may be affected.
Most importantly, we want to ensure that our students, faculty, and staff have the support they need. We are here to support all students, including those who may be impacted by changes to the DACA program. More information on DACA and CCA can be found on our website here and a list of resources, including emotional, legal, and financial support options can be found at the bottom of this email. In addition, we encourage you to support one another. If you or someone you know needs help, please take the time to fill out a CCA Cares Form to ensure that the appropriate CCA staff members follow up and that resources are made available in a timely manner.
I know many of you are hungry to make a change and to fight this decision in any way you can. Art and craft are the building blocks of activism and I encourage you to continue to use your practice to make the world a better place and to empower yourselves and those around you. Talk to one another, learn from one another, support one another, and remember that if we stand together we can make a difference.
Sincerely,
Stephen Beal
Please know that our colleagues in student affairs and throughout the College are here to support all students, including those who may be impacted by changes to the DACA program. If you communicate with a DACA student who has questions about employment, please advise them to contact Diana Chávez (diana@cca.edu), director of career development. DREAMers with questions about financial aid should contact Dewayne Barnes (dbarnes@cca.edu), director of financial aid. Those seeking referrals to immigration attorneys can contact Jessica McMillan (jmcmillan@cca.edu) or Jennifer Glass (j.glass@cca.edu), the SF-based director and OAK-based assistant director of international student affairs and programs. More information on the legal implications of the decision to repeal DACA can be found online here.
We would like to remind you that free professional, confidential counseling is available to all CCA students through CCA's Counseling Services. To make an appointment, contact Student Affairs in Oakland at 510.594.3666 or in San Francisco at 415.703.9570. CCA's mental health crisis hotline is also available 24 hours, seven days a week, by calling 510.594.5099.
