Cuesta Statement & Forum on DACA
In response to the Trump Administration’s recent action to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, Cuesta College is hosting a free event to provide information and resources to those affected on the Central Coast. “Sharing the Dream: Supporting Undocumented Students and Their Families” will offer a forum with keynote speakers, breakout sessions and a resource fair on September 22 from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. in the Cultural and Performing Arts Center (building 7300) on the San Luis Obispo Campus.
Hosted by the Cuesta College’s Latina Leadership Network chapter, the event will include representatives from Congressman Salud Carbajal's office, the Mexican Consulate, the Central Coast Coalition for Undocumented Student Success, Cal Poly RISE, various Catholic charities, individual pro-bono lawyers, and more. Topics discussed will include next steps and the implications of ending DACA, legal rights and immigration resources to undocumented students and families, current local advocacy efforts, understanding AB-540, DACA, and the Dream Act, as well as key strategies for how allies can help.
The forum is free to attend; dinner will be provided. For more information, please email Cuesta College Student Equity and Success Centers Director Que Dang at que_dang@cuesta.edu.
On September 5, 2017, Cuesta College released the following statement regarding the termination of DACA:
“The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program protects 800,000 immigrant youth from deportation and gives them freedom to work and live life. They are in school, and working hard. They are our friends, our classmates, our co-workers and neighbors.
They are Cuesta College students.
DACA recipients were brought to the U.S. as children, attended U.S. high schools, and have no criminal record. Their DACA deferral from deportation has allowed them to attend college and legally hold a job in the U.S.
Cuesta College denounces President Trump’s decision to end the DACA program.
In the words of the California Community Colleges Chancellor Eloy Ortiz Oakley, ‘ending DACA is a heartless and senseless decision that goes against American ideals and basic human decency. In California, we don’t put dreams – or Dreamers – on hold. The California Community Colleges remain committed to serving all students, regardless of immigration status and to providing safe and welcoming environments in which to learn. We will do all within our power to assist students affected by this decision.’
Cuesta College remains an inclusive institution committed to creating a welcoming and supportive classroom and campus environment. We will continue to support all of our students to achieve their dreams and honor their diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Please visit the Cuesta College Multicultural and Diversity Resources web page for more information.”
Dr. Mark Sanchez
Cuesta College Assistant Superintendent/Vice President of Student Services
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