It’s not unreasonable to say we’re living in unpredictable times. President Trump spent his first week back in the White House signing dozens of executive orders, their subject matter ranging from foreign policy to social concerns. For more information on them, an article by KCCI explains each in detail using a graph on the second page.
One of Trump’s many promises during his campaign was to focus on immigration and border security, deeming the current state of both to be unacceptable. He has followed through on his word, immediately treating the border crisis as his number one priority. His administration has allowed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to raid several locations, including nationwide schools, hospitals, and churches.
Many have been frightened by his actions. Social media platforms such as TikTok and Facebook are swamped with videos of people venting their frustrations and fears. While many of those arrested have been escorted out peacefully, just as many of these arrests have ended in tears and bloodshed.
Jennifer Fetterly, a Communications Specialist for the Office of Strategic Communications at Madison College, reinforces the notion that we have nothing to fear. “Our school’s priority,” she says, “is to ensure all of us, regardless of immigration status, are informed about available resources both on campus and in the community. We remain committed to providing students access to higher education in an inclusive and safe environment.”
As of writing this, Fetterly does not believe the school is at risk of being targeted by federal law enforcement efforts, nor has there been any communication implying it will be. Circumstances can change, however, so her office has been monitoring developments in local news that could potentially impact our campus community.
“Our Public Safety officers maintain regular interactions with law enforcement on a range of matters,” Fetterly says. “Together, we follow established protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of our students and employees.”
“Knowledge is power,” adds John Flannery, the Director of Public Safety and Risk Management. “The more one understands the rights afforded to them in this country, regardless of citizenship status, the better prepared they are.”
Flannery made a point to remind students of a universal right: the right to remain silent and request an attorney. This does not change whether you are being approached by an officer or are questioned by one.
Furthermore, The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects personally identifiable information in students’ education records from unauthorized disclosure. Fetterly and the Office of Strategic Communications have stated that they will not share personally identifiable information without a student’s written authorization or notification, except in very specific situations, including compliance with a judicial order or a lawfully issued subpoena. Know that this applies to all students.
Be aware that many areas of Madison College’s campuses are public spaces – therefore, the college cannot prohibit law enforcement from entering said spaces. However, there is limited access to classrooms, labs, offices, and service areas.
“Per our standard procedures,” Fetterly states, “if law enforcement provides a valid warrant or judicial order to access non-public spaces, that request should be referred to Public Safety, as they are responsible for reviewing said request and responding appropriately. This could include granting access when required, although Madison College does not provide access to our restricted areas on campus beyond what is legally required.”
If you feel you are at risk of being questioned by ICE or do not feel safe in our college community, Fetterly advises contacting Public Safety. There you can hear a more in-depth explanation of the school’s current procedures for keeping students safe and learn more about your rights while on campus.