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One of the most beautiful traits of our university is the diversity of the Cal State East Bay family. From those who grew up down the street from our Hayward campus to others who sought our university from halfway around the world, the experiences and perspectives every student, faculty and staff member brings to our community makes us more connected, and more steadfast in our commitment to social justice.

I am saddened, frustrated and angry that there are some throughout our nation who do not support, and actually work against, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policies. Last month’s ruling in Texas denouncing the process has put thousands of Dreamers in limbo, as new applications are on hold and many others in progress remain pending. I know this affects some in our Cal State East Bay family, and I can hardly imagine the stress these Dreamers must endure, in addition to the pressures of college life and the unexpected events of this last year.

Our student leaders in ASI denounce this interruption in support for Dreamers, as do I. Our Academic Senate resolved last November to support a coordinator or director in a center to provide resources for these students. Currently, a task force of students, faculty and staff are working to provide recommendations to implement an Undocumented Student Resource Center, as well as dedicated spaces and programming to support more affinity-based students. Their compassion and dedication, alongside that from many in our Cal State East Bay community, gives me hope that we will be guided by what is just, and not what is political.

Support for Dreamers remains an active conversation at the highest levels in our country, and the emerging federal budget has provisions to reconcile this persistent issue. These national discussions are complicated and contentious, but I know that the conversations and actions taking place at our university will be productive and impactful.

If you are aware of Cal State East Bay students, or you are an undocumented student, who need help, the university has academic, social and legal resources. The Cal State East Bay family stands against racial injustices of any kind, and actively supports all our students as they pursue their dreams.

Sincerely,

Cathy Sandeen
President