Support for DACA students

Email from President Davidson

July 22, 2021

Dear Roadrunners,

I’m extremely disappointed to be writing to you today regarding the recent federal court ruling that halted the processing of new Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals applications. I feel for our affected students who have yet again had their future clouded by legal proceedings out of their control.

First, I’d like to clarify for our DACA students: Friday’s ruling held that for the time being, the federal government can continue to accept new DACA applications and accept and approve DACA renewal applications, only that it cannot approve new DACA applications. This means current DACA recipients can maintain their status for the time being, but those with pending applications or those wishing to apply won’t be considered at this time.

While this decision does not immediately end DACA, at least for those with DACA status already, thousands with pending initial applications, many of whom waited years to become eligible to apply, are again stuck in limbo. I know many of our DACA students and alumni are emotionally exhausted from all the court cases and failed legislation that have yet to provide any kind of permanent status for Dreamers.

But MSU Denver’s support for our students is unwavering, regardless of immigration status. We are partnering with higher-education and civic leaders to urge lawmakers to provide permanent protections for DACA recipients and Dreamers, and we will continue to offer resources and support to our Dreamer students.

At MSU Denver, we are invested in the success of all students and the values of diversity and inclusion that we espouse. The University was the first in Colorado to offer a special tuition rate for undocumented students and joined an amicus brief in support of DACA filed in the Supreme Court. MSU Denver also continues to back a stipend for immigrant students in crisis, the Dreamer Emergency Fund.

We will continue to advocate for our Dreamer students and keep our community informed as we do. I want to thank our dedicated Immigrant Services Program staff especially for continuing to support our students through the years, and I encourage students to reach out to them with any questions you have.

Sincerely,

Janine Davidson, Ph.D.
President, MSU Denver