Seattle University Supports Undocumented Students

In response to recent concerns based on the results of the November election, Catholic institutions of higher education from across the country banded together to release a statement regarding undocumented students. According to the declaration, which was signed by dozens of school presidents including Stephen V. Sundborg the President of Seattle University, Catholic colleges and universities will continue to welcome undocumented students.

Since the 2012 Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy, Catholic schools have accepted qualified undocumented students. These students are young men and women who have come to America with their families having fled violence and instability. It’s the “express hope” of the undersigned presidents that “the students in our communities who have qualified for DACA are able to continue their studies without interruption and that many more students in their situation will be welcome to contribute their talents to our campuses.”

But the universities and colleges have agreed that they won’t stop there. They have also pledged to support these students as they need assistance confronting legal and financial uncertainty. Each of the schools that signed the statement vowed to offer counseling and ministry support along with legal resources and any other services available.

The statement was made in an effort to continue the mission and legacy of Catholic institutions of higher education. “Our colleges and universities share a long history of educating students from a diverse array of socioeconomic, geographical and ethnic backgrounds, often welcoming those on society’s margins, especially immigrants and underprivileged populations.”

It was also made in response to Pope Francis’ visit to the United States last year where he spoke at the World Meeting of Families gathered in Philadelphia. During the meeting, he spoke to the Hispanic community and encouraged them to keep going no matter the hardships they’ve faced.

The statement ended with these words, “We are committed to educating these young people, brought to the United States by their parents, who come to our universities to build for themselves and us a brighter future.”

regions: Seattle

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