Michigan’s Department of Education and Catholic leaders across the state are responding to new federal guidelines that allow immigration officials to make arrests at schools and places of worship. The new guidelines, instituted by the Trump administration, are a reversal of previous federal guidelines.
“The…directive rescinds the Biden Administration’s guidelines for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforcement actions that thwart law enforcement in or near so-called “sensitive” areas,” said a statement from the Department of Homeland Security.
Last Thursday, the State Superintendent Michael Rice issued a memo recommending schools seek legal advice for potential encounters with immigration enforcement.
“You should consult with your legal counsel soon to be prepared for circumstances where a member of ICE or another law enforcement official approaches you for access to students or student records,” the memo reads.
The memo also advises school districts to “establish an internal process for school personnel to follow that includes a district-designated staff member and consultation with legal counsel.”
The Department of Education letter states that federal law guarantees free education to all students. It warns that “This action could cast a shadow on students’ right to a free public education,” and scare families off from sending their kids to school.
A note from the Michigan Catholic Conference, signed by 10 leaders from seven churches, called on lawmakers to support legislation that would “keep immigrant and undocumented families safe and united.”
The letter called for Michigan’s Congressional delegation to work for a pathway to citizenship that maintains border security. It also says that undocumented immigrants will continue to receive support and respect from the church.
“As disciples of Jesus Christ, he's commanded us to, you know, give a drink to the thirsty and welcome the stranger,” said Rev. Robert D. Gruss, the Bishop of Saginaw. “We're called to be the living face of Jesus to other people, no matter who they are, no matter where they come from, whether they come into the country legally or illegally.”
The letter clarified that the churches do not support “open borders,” and that they believe “unnecessary migration” should be avoided.
“The question is, should the places where our migrants find refuge and assistance, should that be the place where the government comes in and raids,” Gruff said. “I don't believe the church would say that should be happening."
