The day following the 2016 presidential election, Chancellor Nicholas Dirks joined the other UC chancellors and the president of the University in issuing a statement that underscored and described our unwavering support for all members of our community in accord with UC’s Principles Against Intolerance. As the Principles make clear, the University “strives to foster an environment in which all are included” and “all are given an equal opportunity to learn and explore” free of harassment based on immigration status, racial/ethnic background, religion, sexual orientation or political views.
Now, many of our undocumented students are expressing uncertainty and fear over possible changes to federal immigration policies that may directly affect them and/or their families, as well as the University as a whole. In that context, on behalf of the Berkeley campus, Chancellor Dirks stated our strong support for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Program, its beneficiaries, and all of our undocumented students. It is DACA that allows a large number of these students to be classified as California residents for admissions and financial aid purposes, making possible a Berkeley education.
We are doing everything in our power to provide our undocumented students with the services and support they need. Visit the Undocumented Student Program website learn more about the academic support and free legal resources we provide to these students.
We are fortunate that Berkeley donors have been our partners in providing financial support for these programs and services. However, as the need continues to grow, we encourage individuals who want to help to give to the "Undocumented Student Program," providing financial support to our undocumented community for both the near and long term. Please consider making an online contribution today.
We look forward to working with President Napolitano’s task force as it develops strategies for how best to protect undocumented students across the UC system in the face of possible changes to federal immigration policies. The unequivocal goal of these efforts is to protect all members of our community and ensure their continued success at the University.