UPDATED 1/29: As educators, MEA members are committed to the safety and wellbeing of students, families and the communities we all call home. We believe schools and communities should be places of learning and belonging, and they should be safe for all.

Whether it’s in Minnesota or here in Michigan, the fear and trauma immigration enforcement is creating for children and families is real and harmful. Aside from the obvious and life-altering impacts on those experiencing these events firsthand, students here and across the country are watching these events unfold, often live and unfiltered via social media.

NEA has compiled resources to assist with situations when immigration enforcement impacts your school or worksite. The most essential element to remember: DO NOT attempt to handle situations on your own. Follow established district or employer procedures and notify administration and your local MEA office immediately. Reach out to MEA local leadership and staff for assistance, support or answers to questions.

MEA is committed to staying focused on student needs while ensuring our members are protected. We are regularly updating MEA.org/immigration with resources and calls to action as they are available, including:

1. MEA members are urged to contact lawmakers to support SB 508 (up for a Senate hearing on Jan. 29), which would designate certain places like schools, courthouses and other “sensitive locations” as immigration-enforcement-free zones.
2. NEA is asking members to contact Congress on two fronts: to freeze funding for ICE in the wake of what’s happening in Minneapolis AND to make schools, churches, and hospitals protected spaces from immigration enforcement. Take a moment to fill out both forms and contact your federal lawmakers today.
3. NEA is partnering with ACLU nationally on this immigration issues. In addition to watching MEA.org/immigration for actions to take, ACLU of Michigan is a great resource for MEA members who want to engage further – learn more at ACLUMich.org.

MEA is engaged in constant communication with NEA and other statewide education organizations to mobilize resources to support students and educators with immigration enforcement situations.