The concern about the possibility of U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) presence on campus has grown after discussion at the first Academic Senate meeting and a false report made on Friday, Feb 5.
Know your Rights
Within the Fourth Amendment, citizens have the right to secure property from unreasonable searches and seizures meaning law enforcement cannot enter or detain property without correct documentation. If stopped and questioned one may ask to see a warrant from an officer. Take the time to read over the warrant to ensure that it is real and signed by a judge.
“The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized,” according to the Fourth Amendment.
Under the Fifth Amendment, all are entitled to a right to silence, meaning you do not need to answer any questions ICE or any law enforcement officers may ask. During an arrest, officers must highlight their rights as they read off the Miranda warning. The warning guarantees all the right to a fair trial and the right to representation in court if the defending party cannot afford one.
“No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.” according to the Fifth Amendment.
How to handle interactions with ICE
In the case that ICE is on campus, they must first convene with the Office of the President, Erika Endrijonas, with “any law enforcement agency, including ICE, must immediately report to the Office of the President and Campus Safety when coming to campus” as stated in an email sent out by Executive Director of Public Affairs and Communications, Jordan Killebrew
If contacted while on campus, students are advised to direct ICE to the Office of the President immediately. Teachers are not required to allow ICE to enter their classrooms without a signed judicial warrant for an arrest.
Resources on campus
If students at any point feel unsafe, they are advised to contact Campus Safety with any questions and concerns. Students can text to get updates or call number (805) 730-4064. The Campus Safety / Emergency Response office is located in East Campus Classroom 41, on Loma Alta Drive under the bridge, and is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Centers for Equity and Social Justice, CESJ, are currently providing resources to any students who are impacted. They are located on East Campus and next to the cafeteria and are open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
In the CESJ room is the Dream Center where undocumented students can set up classes, set immigration appointments, and speak to a counselor. They also have provided a list of resources for undocumented students that includes local resources for undocumented persons in Santa Barbara. The office is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
For those who may be going through additional stress and fear, City College offers mental health counseling as well as many other mental health resources.
