Delta College trustees on Dec. 17 approved the following resolution reaffirming Delta's designation as a sanctuary college, "committed to protecting the rights, dignity, and well-being of all students."

Read the full resolution here or below.

Resolution of the Board of Trustees of San Joaquin Delta Community College Reaffirming Sanctuary College Status and Commitment to Immigrant Students and Community

WHEREAS, San Joaquin Delta Community College (SJDC) has consistently demonstrated its commitment to inclusion, safety, and support for immigrant students through Board-adopted policies and resolutions, including Resolution No. 16-54 (2016), which affirmed the college’s role in providing educational opportunities for all; Resolution No. 16-77 (2017), which committed to maintaining a climate of inclusion and called for the preservation of DACA; and subsequent resolutions, such as Resolution Nos. 18-30, 19-08, 18-59, and 20-14, which reinforced SJDC’s dedication to supporting undocumented students through resources like the Dreamers Success Center;

WHEREAS, immigrant individuals and families have made and continue to make invaluable contributions to the economic, social, and cultural growth of San Joaquin County and the broader region, enriching the community through resilience, perseverance, and hard work, and SJDC recognizes their critical role in strengthening and diversifying the fabric of society;

WHEREAS, the current political climate and rhetoric, particularly targeting immigrant communities, have heightened fear, uncertainty, and mental health challenges among undocumented students and their families, necessitating an unequivocal reaffirmation of SJDC’s role as a safe, welcoming, and supportive institution;

WHEREAS, SJDC acknowledges its responsibility to stand as an unapologetic ally, providing resources, advocacy, and protections for its immigrant students and families, while upholding state and federal policies that safeguard their rights and access to education;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees, including undocumented individuals, and ensuring their ability to pursue education without fear or barriers;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that SJDC shall continue to maintain and enhance resources like the Dreamers Success Center, which provides free legal services, counseling, and other vital support to undocumented students, and will actively disseminate information on accessing such resources;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that SJDC will uphold policies limiting cooperation with immigration authorities, including prohibiting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers from entering campus without a valid warrant and refusing to share information about students’ immigration status without a court order, ensuring that the campus remains a place of safety and learning for all;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees directs SJDC to continue collaborating with community organizations and advocacy groups to amplify the voices of immigrant students, advocate for policies that support their educational success, and combat narratives that undermine their worth and dignity, ensuring that SJDC remains a beacon of inclusivity and compassion.

PASSED AND ADOPTED this 17th day of December 2024 (by unanimous vote).