WVC Supports Immigrant Students

To the WVC Community:

This past Friday, the President of the United States signed an executive order that restricts people from seven countries from entering the United States for at least 90 days (Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen) and suspends the admission of all refugees for four months. The order does not affect naturalized citizens from these countries but could affect those with Permanent Residency status.

The situation following this order is uncertain and changing, but it could disrupt the lives of students, faculty, and staff at WVC. Members of our college community from these countries are likely to feel especially vulnerable, and others may feel so as well. And thus I write again to affirm that in these times of uncertainty, the College must value all of our members—students, staff, and faculty—from all walks of life, belief systems, origins, and identities. We are stronger because of the great diversity we are privileged to share and experience. We must all practice and promote the respectful and safe treatment of each other and live the values of an inclusive community.

I will keep the community updated about the shifting legal terrain in the nation and the State of Washington as it pertains to matters that will affect the WVC community; and I will continue to inform the community about campus and local resources available for those in need of support. Please also remember that on February 15th ASWVC is offering a session called Know Your Rights which is a great opportunity for all of us to gain knowledge on immigrant rights and about changing laws and rules. Bertha Sanchez sent out an email about the event and there are flyers around campus. The DREAMers Taskforce will also be present at the event to help support students and employees. If you need to talk to someone or feel unsafe on campus please contact our Counseling office to set up an appointment 509-682-6850.

WVC's strength lies in its diversity and the care we have for each other.

 

Jim Richardson, Ph.D. 

President

Wenatchee Valley College