Undocumented students and their families are facing an especially difficult and uncertain time as concerns grow over heightened immigration enforcement activities across California. With reports of immigration officer sightings, increased enforcement operations, and community members being detained, many immigrant families are navigating an increasingly distressing environment. These enforcement efforts are expected to continue for several weeks, further intensifying fears and concerns within immigrant communities. Immigrant rights organizers have already reported an increase in sightings of immigration officers. For example, a recent NBC News-San Diego article highlights concerns from a community organizer who described the situation as a “massive surge” in immigration enforcement activity. The article also recounts a troubling incident in which an immigration officer reportedly “approached and questioned a student as he walked into the school campus.” This post outlines three important steps that individuals can take to support undocumented students and their families during this time.

Fundraiser to support immigrant family in San Diego

Donate to immigrant families directly impacted. When a parent is arrested by immigration officers, young adults often find themselves abruptly becoming “substitute parents”—suddenly having to figure out how they will be able to financially support the household and care for younger siblings—this is all the while trying to keep up with their own studies, coping with their loved one’s arrest, and searching for trustworthy legal services. To the extent that others can, it becomes very helpful to donate directly to families who are experiencing a loved one’s detention or deportation. To this end, there are several fundraisers online where people can learn more about families recently impacted and support them.

Share immigration-related resources. You can find several resources online that can help families prepare an emergency plan for what to do in the event of a loved one’s detention, or know their rights in the event of a direct encounter with immigration officers. In California, there are also multiple organizations supporting immigrant families through rapid response teams which help spread the word about sightings of immigration officers, such as Union del Barrio or the 805 UndocuFund. There are also critical resources available through Dream Centers (or Undocumented Student Support Services programs) for undocumented youth and young adults enrolled in community college, a CSU campus, or a UC campus.

Volunteer or donate to organizations. When immigration enforcement practices heighten across the city, immigrants become particularly fearful of leaving their homes whether it is for work, school, or to run errands. Nevertheless, many face the difficult decision of risking their safety and leaving their homes in order to work. This is especially the case if they are the main financial providers for the household. Whether family members are staying home out of fear or risking detection and leaving for work, families are often struggling to meet their basic needs. Under these circumstances, it can be helpful to donate to organizations or churches that are helping families directly with emergency grants, groceries, or rides.

Spread information about rapid response hotlines.

• Alameda County: (510) 241-4011
• Contra Costa County: (925) 900-5151
• San Francisco: (415) 200-1548
• San Mateo County: (203) 666-4472
• Santa Clara County: (408) 290-1144
• Sacramento/Yolo (other NorCal counties): (916) 382-0256
• Santa Barbara County: (805) 870-8855
• Santa Cruz: (831) 239-4289
• Kern County: (661) 432-2230
• Humboldt County: (707) 200-8091
• Los Angeles Raids and Rapid Response: (888) 624-4752
• ImmDef Law Center Legal Response (LA, San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, San Diego, and Imperial Counties): (213) 833-8283
• Orange County: (714) 881-1558
• Inland Coalition: (909) 361-4588
• San Diego Rapid Response Network: (858) 751-7553

For a full list of Rapid Response Hotlines, visit California Rapid Response Network (CARRN).

Additional Resources

“Supporting Students Directly Affected by a Loved One’s Deportation” (My Undocumented Life) – “In recent months, there has been an ongoing expansion and intensification of enforcement activities (such as arrests, raids, and sightings of immigration officers) across the country. Consequently, many undocumented and mixed-status families (where at least one member is undocumented) are grappling with the threat and reality of deportations. If you are an educator, counselor, or staff member working directly with a student whose loved one is deported, there are several ways you can support them.” Read more here.

“Providing Direct Assistance for Detained Immigrant Youth & Parents” (My Undocumented Life) – “Given that immigration arrests severely impact individuals’ well-being, daily routines, and finances, families are also often in need of direct financial support. Under these circumstances, several immigrant young adults and allies have created online fundraisers to help alleviate the costs associated with securing legal support, mental health services, and housing, among other needs. Below are a few featured fundraisers and petitions of immigrant young adults who are reaching out for support:” Read more here.

“How to Support Immigrant Families Amid Heightened Enforcement: 12 Practical Recommendations” (My Undocumented Life) – “As rumors of immigration raids continue to circulate across the country, families often feel compelled to shelter in place and limit their time outdoors to minimize risk. Many also hesitate to seek resources out of fear of encountering immigration officers, having their data being shared with immigration authorities, or being reported. Young adults face tremendous pressure to support their loved ones financially, emotionally, and materially. In response to reports of raids in the neighborhood, for example, young adults may volunteer to drive their parents or run errands. They often check in with loved ones to ensure they arrive at work safely. Some may feel compelled to work longer hours or take on additional jobs so their undocumented parents do not have to risk working. Young adults may also provide emotional support to their younger siblings or parents. As families face heightened fears, limited resources, and greater responsibilities, fellow community members can offer support in many ways. ” Read more here.

“Educators’ Toolkit for Supporting Undocumented Students” (UURISE) – “UURISE recently published a toolkit for educators, counselors, and advocates to help students navigate immigration-related challenges and concerns. UURISE is a nonprofit organization based in Southern California, which provides a wide range of resources and services for immigrants, refugees, and allies. In addition to providing an overview of key terminology and policies, the toolkit includes helpful information and resources for knowing how to support students through common scenarios.” Read more here.

DON’T FORGET TO SHARE THIS PAGE WITH YOUR FRIENDS!

Don’t miss out on the latest resources available for undocumented students, make sure to “like” our page on Facebook and subscribe (it’s free)!

Are you interested in hosting an immigration presentation or workshop at your school or organization? Learn more about the range of speaking engagements we offer here.

At My Undocumented Life we provide up-to-date information and resources for undocumented immigrants and allies. We post scholarship opportunities that are open to undocumented students, strategies for navigating the educational system, information on how to apply for DACA/Advance Parole, news on DAPA, and much more. Most importantly, we want to provide a sense of community to our diverse group of readers. Learn more about our work here: “About Us“

Categories: Get involved

Tags: Immigration, undocumented