To our Undocumented and Mixed-Status Students,
We understand that you may be feeling uncertain or anxious after this election. Please know that we stand with you and remain steadfast in our commitment to your well-being, education, and future.
We want to reassure you that there is a wealth of support and services designed to help you navigate legal and mental health challenges, should they arise:
Undocumented Student Resources at the Peralta Colleges:
- Berkeley City College: Undocumented Community Resource Center is available at https://www.berkeleycitycollege.edu/ucrc.
- College of Alameda: Undocumented Student Support Services are available at https://alameda.edu/coaussp/support-services/.
- Laney College: Undocumented Community Resource Center is available at https://laney.edu/ab540/.
- Merritt College: Undocumented Community Resource Center is available at https://www.merritt.edu/aspira/.
Immigration Legal Services:
- Undocumented Legal Services: All California community colleges, including the Peralta Colleges, have dedicated legal services for undocumented students. These services can help with DACA renewal, legal consultations, and other immigration-related matters. Visit FindyourAlly.com to schedule your free consultation today!
- Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC): Offers a wide range of resources for navigating immigration laws and protecting your rights. Visit their site at https://www.ilrc.org.
- National Immigration Law Center (NILC): NILC provides resources and advocacy for undocumented individuals across the U.S., including information on DACA, protections for immigrant youth, and updates on immigration policies. Visit www.nilc.org for more information.
Mental Health and Wellness Resources:
- Mental Health Counseling on Campus: Each of the Peralta Colleges provide students free counseling services. These resources are available to support you in managing stress, anxiety, or other mental health concerns. Be sure to reach out to your campus counseling center:
- California Mental Health Services Authority (CalMHSA): Offers mental health services and support for immigrant communities. Find resources at http://www.calmhsa.org
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) California: Provides mental health resources and peer support for immigrants and their families. Visit their website at https://www.namica.org
- The Trevor Project: For LGBTQ+ undocumented students, The Trevor Project provides confidential, free mental health support through texting, calling, or chat. Visit www.thetrevorproject.org for crisis counseling.
As we move forward, please take care of yourselves and remember that you are not alone. Your health, safety, and future matter deeply, and many resources are available to help you navigate any challenges that may arise. Be sure to reach out to our support services or to any of these organizations if you need assistance.
We are committed to standing by you and supporting your success. While we may not have all the answers, know that we are committed to supporting you in any way we can. You have the strength and resilience to overcome any challenges, and we will continue to work to ensure you have the resources to thrive.
In solidarity and support!
Tammeil Y. Gilkerson, Chancellor, Peralta Community College District
Denise Richardson, President, Berkeley City College
Melanie Dixon, President, College of Alameda
Rudy Besikof, President, Laney College
David M. Johnson, President, Merritt College
