Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

I believe it is important to reiterate what I said following last November’s presidential election and share with you the university’s deep concern about the immigration executive order issued by the new administration in Washington.

As a Jesuit Catholic institution, Seattle University is deeply committed to the dignity and equality of every individual, to the common good and to developing leaders for a just and humane world. We are a welcoming and inclusive community that is steadfast in our commitment to provide a safe learning environment and support every student in our campus community—regardless of background, religion, beliefs, identity, country of origin or immigration status. We find enrichment and strength in our diversity.

The university strongly opposes the discriminatory and misguided executive order issued by the Trump administration on non-U.S. citizens from select countries (Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen). We stand in full solidarity with our international students as well as faculty and staff who may be affected. We will keep them informed as more information becomes known and we have further advice to share beyond yesterday’s statement.

While there is much uncertainty regarding additional immigration changes under consideration by the White House, the university is here to support our international students and our undocumented students in every way we can. I previously joined with other university leaders in signing statements in support of maintaining the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Executive Order. Additionally, the university has expressed our support for the BRIDGE Act to our representatives in Congress. The bipartisan legislation would allow individuals covered under DACA to continue living in the United States for an additional three years while immigration policy is further addressed by Congress.

The university has a number of resources available to support all our community members who may be affected by changes in the immigration system. There are faculty and staff to call upon within colleges, schools and divisions, including the International Student Center, the Office of Multicultural Affairs, Campus Ministry, the Office of Global Engagement and the University Counsel’s office. I encourage all students in need to make use of this help and support.

I remain grateful to all our community members for their support of our students. We will continue moving forward together in solidarity, respect, care and compassion.

Sincerely,

Stephen V. Sundborg, S.J.
President