“Let me be clear. UC welcomes all students who qualify academically, whether they are documented or undocumented.” – University of California President Janet Napolitano
Since her appointment as president of the University of California (UC) in July, Janet Napolitano has sought to ease concerns that she might be hostile to undocumented immigrants because of her background with the Department of Homeland Security.
In October, Napolitano announced that UC will devote $5 million to provide financial aid and counseling to students who are undocumented immigrants. The announcement came in Napolitano’s first public speaking engagement since assuming the UC presidency. The $5 million, Napolitano said, will “support these students with resources like trained advisers, student service centers, and financial aid.”
“Consider this a down payment,” Napolitano suggested, “one more piece of evidence of our commitment to all Californians.” Also beginning this year, California is allowing students who are undocumented immigrants – and thus ineligible for federal financial aid – to qualify for state scholarships and grants.
UC officials believe that in a student population of almost a quarter-million, the state university system enrolls fewer than one thousand undocumented immigrant students who were brought into the country as children, a group now popularly dubbed the “dreamers.” At the moment, most of these students are protected from deportation by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy enacted by the Obama Administration in 2012. Napolitano met with student groups representing the dreamers on her first day as UC President.
If you are an undocumented immigrant, if you’re seeking a visa for school or for work, or if you’re an immigrant who is facing any legal issue whatsoever, speak with an experienced immigration attorney right away.
A good immigration lawyer will walk you through hearings, applications, and other legal procedures pertaining to immigration. An experienced immigration attorney will also provide you with the sound legal advice you need and will fight vigorously to defend your rights. Don’t hesitate to contact a good immigration lawyer today.
