OSU’s commitment to DACA is without reservation, even in uncertain times

June 23, 2020

Dear OSU community members,

I write to provide additional information about the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision on June 18 in Department of Homeland Security v. Regents of Univ. of California regarding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

The decision ensures that for the time being, the DACA program will continue. In its opinion, the court found that the manner used and the rationale offered by the Department of Homeland Security in 2017 to repeal DACA was “arbitrary and capricious,” and violated federal law. However, the court did not determine whether DACA should continue permanently, leaving that question to the presidential administration and Congress. Instead, the court made a procedural decision which has the effect – for now – of keeping DACA in place. It is possible that further attempts may be made by the presidential administration to curtail or end the program.

OSU President-elect King Alexander and I are in full agreement that students and employees with DACA, undocumented students, and students from mixed-immigration status families are valued and essential members of the university community. They are part of the fabric of this university. While the Supreme Court’s decision is undoubtedly a relief for them and their families, Dr. Alexander and I fully commit that the university’s work to support these OSU community members must – and will -- continue.

Consistent with OSU’s land grant mission, the university is committed to providing access to higher education for all residents of Oregon. And OSU will continue advocating for federal legislative action to end the uncertainty and protect DACA recipients. We will advocate for maintaining DACA in partnership with state and Oregon Congressional leaders, the President’s Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, and the Association of Public Land Grant Universities.

As we learn more about the effects of the court’s decision, information will be updated on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and Undocumented Student FAQs website.

OSU’s Dreaming Beyond Borders Resource Center – part of the university’s Educational Opportunities Program – at [email protected] and the Office of Human Resources at [email protected] remain available to provide guidance, support and referral to university resources for students and employees with DACA, undocumented students, and students from mixed-status families, regardless of location.

Sincerely,

Ed Ray
President