Political Climate Q&A
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) tailored for LGBTQIA2+ and undocumented students at Riverside City College (RCC) who are experiencing hardships and seeking resources due to the current political climate.
General Resources
On both the Dreamers website and the Rainbow Engagement Center, we have compiled essential
resources to support members of our undocumented and LGBTQIA2+ community who may have
specific concerns or need access to resources.
RCC offers various support services, including mental health counseling, academic assistance, and cultural engagement centers. For more information, visit the Student Support Programs page.
LGBTQIA2+ Students
Yes, RCC's Rainbow Engagement Center (REC) offers academic support, counseling, community resources, mentorship, and a welcoming environment for LGBTQIA2+ students and allies. More information is available on the REC page.
Undocumented Students
Students can utilize the Dreamers website, which includes resources like TODEC and information about upcoming events where legal counsel will be available.
Under the 2018 Legal Advisory 18-01, ICE should not be on campus and your information is protected under FERPA. You have the right to remain silent, do not have to answer questions about your immigration status, can request to speak with an attorney before answering any questions, and should not consent to searches without a warrant.
No. Although RCC is a public institution, there are areas on campus that have limited access, including classrooms, locked offices, or areas marked as “authorized personnel” that cannot be accessed without official District permission.
No. Campus policies also pertain to international students.
Mental Health
RCC's Student Health and Psychological Services offers counseling and mental health resources. Visit their website for more information.
Stop on Federal Funding
No, the pause does not apply across-the-board. It is expressly limited to programs, projects, and activities implicated by the President’s Executive Orders, such as ending DEI, the green new deal, and funding nongovernmental organizations that undermine the national interest.
No, any program that provides direct benefits to Americans is explicitly excluded from the pause and exempted from this review process. In addition to Social Security and Medicare, already explicitly excluded in the guidance, mandatory programs like Medicaid and SNAP will continue without pause. Funds for small businesses, farmers, Pell grants, Head Start, rental assistance, and other similar programs will not be paused. If agencies are concerned that these programs may implicate the President’s Executive Orders, they should consult OMB to begin to unwind these objectionable policies without a pause in the payments.
Archived Messages from RCC Leadership
Dear RCC Community,
We are aware of the flurry of Executive Orders from the new administration that are stoking fear, uncertainty, and concerns of threats to our campus community. I want to reassure you of our unwavering commitment, dedication, and service to Undocumented students, DACA recipients, and LGBTQIA2+ community members.
We stand for creating an inclusive and welcoming college campus community. We remain steadfast in our mission, vision, and TIGER values to provide equitable access, support services, and resources to all of our students.
RCC is a proud Hispanic Serving Institution and a sanctuary school that will continue to uphold the 2018 Legal Advisory 18-01 reinforcing the protections provided under SB 54 (California Values Act) and AB 21.
If you encounter, immigration enforcement on campus here are some helpful tips:
- Do Not Panic
- Maintain a calm and professional demeanor. Inform the official that the college has procedures that we are required to follow. You are not required to do anything on behalf of the official.
- Ask for Identification
- Ask the official to identify themselves by their name, ID number, and agency. If they are not willing to share that information you can ask for another officer and a college official.
- Know Your Rights
- You are not legally obligated to speak, answer, or respond to an enforcement official. Only comply if presented with a warrant.
RCC is committed to the safety and well-being of all of our community members. Student Psychological and Health Services will continue to create a safe space and assist our students. Access to RCC Student Support Services for Undocumented students and LGBTQIA2+ campus community may be found below:
RCC Undocu Ally Resources and FAQ
- TODEC is available for legal assistance
- Know Your Rights video in English/Spanish
Please continue to extend kindness, grace, and flexibility to our students and each other as we navigate these uncertain times. We stand in solidarity with our Undocumented students and LGBTQIA2+ community as partners in ensuring access to education, resources, information, and advocacy at RCC.
For additional information or questions, please review the online Q&A. We are working in collaboration with the Office of the Chancellor, General Counsel, Office of Admissions, Department of External Relations and Strategic Communication, and RCCD Police Department to provide ongoing updates, resources, and information in a timely manner.
In Community,
Claire Oliveros, Ph.D.
President, Riverside City College