UO Students Demand Stronger Protections for International Peers Amid Rising Immigration Challenges

Students at the University of Oregon are voicing concerns about actions by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) that affect their international peers. Recently, a few students at UO lost their visa status. This issue isn’t isolated; Oregon State University faced similar cases, with 13 students losing their visas, while Portland State reported two.

In response, students organized a rally on campus last week. They urged the university to take a stand against the crackdown, insisting that it should not cooperate with ICE. Their demands include better communication about ICE activities on campus, the right for students with revoked visas to stay in school, and more robust protections for international students.

Jess Fisher, a member of the UO Young Democratic Socialists of America, was part of the rally group pushing for change. She shared that the campus atmosphere is tense as students worry about their status and safety in light of recent immigration policies.

This wave of distress isn’t unique to Oregon. Across the U.S., college campuses are seeing heightened tensions over immigration issues, with studies showing nearly 60% of international students feeling anxious about their status amid federal changes. According to a recent survey by the American Council on Education, many international students fear a backlash in their academic communities.

Historical context adds depth to this issue. In the past, immigration policies have often swung between more open and restrictive approaches. Today’s scrutiny mirrors trends from previous administrations, causing anxiety among vulnerable populations.

As communities navigate these complex challenges, student reactions, like those seen at UO, indicate the increasing demand for supportive measures and dialogue. Today’s students are advocating for themselves, aiming for a campus environment where all can thrive regardless of their background.

For more in-depth coverage and expert opinions on the immigration crackdown’s effects on education, you can refer to a detailed report by the Pew Research Center.

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Think Out Loud | Immigration | Ice | University Of Oregon | Portland State University | Oregon State University | Higher Education