Message to the USC Community
From: Michael W. Quick, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
March 5, 2018
This has been a time of great uncertainty for members of our community regarding the proposed rescission of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. At least for now, because of court orders, DACA continues as it has, and today is no longer considered the expiration date for this vital program.
As you may know, the U.S. Supreme Court last week declined to review this matter, leaving it to be heard in the appeals courts. That essentially ensures DACA will remain in place for the foreseeable future, unless an appeals court rules otherwise. Meanwhile, there still is not a permanent legislative solution from Congress.
While the more immediate threats to those in our community with DACA status are at least temporarily removed, we know this also prolongs the fear and ambiguity. As a reminder, we have vital resources on campus that can provide legal advice, as well as counseling services, financial advice and assistance, and other advocacy and wellness support. They are listed here: usc.edu/immigration.
If you have or had DACA status, please seek legal advice immediately, if you’ve not yet done so. If you are a DACA student or staff member, you can continue to apply for renewed status but you should promptly seek legal advice. There is financial assistance available, if needed.
The USC Immigration Clinic at the Gould School of Law continues to offer free services to help: If you are a USC student, employee, contract employee, or family member, you can schedule an appointment at (213) 740-8326 or email immclinic@law.usc.edu. There are walk-in hours from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays during spring semester at LAW 313. Spanish-language services are available.
Our Associate Dean of Religious Life Vanessa Gomez Brake is coordinating efforts and opportunities across campus that support immigrant and international students. She can be reached at (213) 740-1366 or by email at vanessagb@usc.edu. There is a support group on Tuesdays at 12:00 noon at the University Religious Center.
Relatedly, if you are a Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holder from any country you should consult with a reputable immigration attorney or the USC Immigration Clinic as soon as possible to determine possible options. Depending on nationality, most TPS programs will be ending later this year or in 2019.
USC unreservedly supports its students, faculty, and staff of all national origins and immigration status. We will continue to push for a permanent resolution to this issue in Los Angeles, in Sacramento, and in Washington, D.C. to ensure that everyone in our community – regardless of status – can continue to thrive at USC.
Cc: C. L. Max Nikias
Academic Senate
Academic Deans
President’s Cabinet
Provost’s Cabinet