On Nov. 21, University System of Maryland (USM) Chancellor Robert L. Caret, PhD, spoke with the presidents of system universities to gather input on guidance he was developing regarding possible changes in U.S. immigration enforcement with the advent of a new federal administration in January. A day later, the chancellor provided a letter to USM institutions. It is the intent of the University of Maryland, Baltimore, to act in accordance with his guidance. Here is Chancellor Caret's letter:

USM Guidance Related to Undocumented Immigrants on our Campuses

"At colleges and universities nationwide, students and other individuals are calling for their institutions to become 'sanctuary campuses' for undocumented immigrants. Since that term means different things to different people, we at the University System of Maryland (USM) must be prudent in our words and actions as we respond.

Furthermore, many students, faculty, and staff have expressed concerns about the potential of the new administration to cancel the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) Program, which defers enforcement of immigration laws against undocumented immigrants who arrive in the United States as children and meet certain conditions, allowing those students to remain in this country.  

USM and its constituent institutions are committed to providing all of our students a safe and supportive educational environment. And we will continue to comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations—including FERPA regulations that protect a student’s privacy.

USM institutions may choose not to engage in the following activities:

• permit immigration enforcement authorities to enter a campus for an enforcement action without a warrant unless there is an exigent circumstance (national security or terrorism matter, risk of death or physical harm, etc.) necessitating immediate action;
• voluntarily partner with immigration enforcement authorities to assist with enforcement activities;
• detain an immigrant at the request of immigration enforcement authorities;
• request and/or share immigration information obtained in connection with a campus arrest;
• provide immigration enforcement authorities with student records without a lawfully issued subpoena or court order.

We encourage our students to reach out for support by using campus advising and counseling services, and other resources. And we pledge our commitment to protecting our higher education community as one of inclusion and diversity, where every student’s background and perspective enhances the education of all."