The SDCCD Board of Trustees, at its February 20 meeting, reaffirmed its longstanding
practice of supporting vulnerable populations when it approved a resolution pushing back against new executive orders and directives to federal agencies “which
target and harm members of the District’s communities based on immigration status,
gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, color, religious beliefs and
customs, ability status, and are designed to erode civil rights protections for all
residents of the District’s communities.” The resolution directs SDCCD Chancellor
Gregory Smith and the presidents of San Diego City, Mesa, Miramar, and Continuing
Education colleges to support and assist any student or employee targeted by any government
agency acting under such orders.
“We are navigating a dangerous period when it comes to civil rights and the protection
of people who have been discriminated against throughout our nation’s history,” said
Board of Trustees President Geysil Arroyo. “Our actions are about supporting every
student, regardless of their race, religion, nationality, or sexual orientation.”
In January, the SDCCD took quick action when the Trump Administration declared that
schools, churches, hospitals, and other public spaces would no longer be off limits
for immigration enforcement activity. The SDCCD clarified its policy which says that
no district employee can assist any federal enforcement efforts and that only Chancellor
Smith and the SDCCD’s general counsel would interact with federal authorities requesting
access to facilities, records, information, or people on SDCCD property.
“Our district unequivocally supports the fundamental belief that every person should
be treated with dignity and respect and has a right to exist and be who they are without
fear of reprisal,” said Chancellor Smith. “We believe — and data clearly shows — that
every student is capable of succeeding when they feel they belong and benefit from
culturally-responsive teaching, learning, and support services.”
SDCCD board reiterates support for most vulnerable students
February 24, 2025 |
The SDCCD Board of Trustees includes from left, Craig Milgrim, Maria Nieto Senour, Geysil Arroyo, Marichu Magaña, and Mariah Jameson (SDCCD photo).
The San Diego Community College District Board of Trustees is doubling down on protecting and serving its diverse student population in response to threatening actions being undertaken by President Donald Trump since his January 20 inauguration.