Before reading this article, I ask you to please be mindful and respectful towards the subject. We as students should focus on building a community rather than making others feel unsafe or silenced. I suggest reading with the intention of understanding and learning.
There can be a lot of fear and anxiety arising from current events happening in our country. There are various faculty, staff, and students who are here to offer you support. The information that will be discussed in this article is for anyone who finds it helpful. The purpose of this composition is to inform you on what your rights are, what to do in certain situations, and resources that are available to you. Transylvania is considered private property, meaning in order for ICE to set foot on campus, they would need a valid and signed judicial warrant. Without a warrant, they are unable to enter any buildings, both academic and residential ones. However, this does mean that public places are not protected in the same way private places are. If they do end up on campus and ask questions to students or faculty, all students, faculty, and staff have the legal right to stay silent and withhold any information about anyone on campus, including your colleagues and friends. Regardless of where you are, the first precaution you can take is carrying an official government-issued form of identification or at least copies of it. This includes driver’s licenses and state IDs, but stronger forms of identification include your passport, birth certificate, and any documentation proving your legal residence. If you feel uncomfortable carrying these kinds of documentation, you may also keep pictures of it on your phone, though it is not guaranteed to be taken as valid in this form. If approached by an ICE agent, do not run away and try your best to remain calm. Having someone with you may also ease this anxiety and fear. Know that you have the option to stay silent if asked any questions and can explicitly state “I choose to remain silent.” For legal support, there are resources available such as the Kentucky Refugee Ministries in Lexington. They provide services such as assisting in filling out or filing forms, representation before the Immigration Court, and disclosing additional information on your rights.
In addition to that, Transy has offices that are available to provide support, assistance, and guidance. This includes the Spirituality and Religious Life office, Counseling Services, and Student Wellbeing Office. It can be difficult as part of an underrepresented community on campus to open up to faculty or staff. The intention of this article is to bring support to not just these communities, but for the overall community of Transylvania University. There is a need to support those around us and to ensure voices are heard. Various individuals around the campus have your benefit and wellbeing in mind and strive to bring you this support. If you find yourself overwhelmed with worries and anxiety, reach out to someone. It may be easier said than done, but expressing yourself to potential like-minded and unprejudiced people can bring light to the situation. Remember, you are resilient, you are loved, you are supported, and you are not alone.
-ReVo
