Support and Resources for Our Community
At the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies (CLACS), we are committed to supporting our students, faculty, and staff as we navigate a rapidly shifting political and institutional landscape. In light of recent developments—including the Executive Order signed on March 20 by the Trump administration, which proposes the closure of the Department of Education and introduces new restrictions on international mobility—we recognize the deep uncertainty and concern affecting our community.
These changes may impact critical areas such as research funding and international travel, particularly for those on F-1, J-1, and H-1B visas. We urge all international students, faculty, and staff to stay informed by reviewing travel guidelines and maintaining up-to-date documentation.
One powerful way to respond to these challenges is by exercising your right to contact your congressional representatives. Advocating for your rights and interests is not only a protected form of democratic engagement—it is also a vital way to ensure your voice is heard during times of political change.
Below, we’ve gathered resources organized into three key areas: Know Your Rights, Immigration and Visa Updates, and Faculty/Staff Well-being Services. We encourage you to explore and share them widely.
Apoyo y Recursos para Nuestra Comunidad
En el Centro de Estudios Latinoamericanos y del Caribe (CLACS), estamos comprometidos a apoyar a nuestros estudiantes, docentes y personal frente a los cambios políticos e institucionales que enfrentamos actualmente. A raíz de los recientes acontecimientos—incluida la Orden Ejecutiva firmada el 20 de marzo por la administración Trump, que propone el cierre del Departamento de Educación y nuevas restricciones a la movilidad internacional—reconocemos la incertidumbre y preocupación que afectan a nuestra comunidad.
Estas medidas pueden tener un impacto en áreas clave como el financiamiento para la investigación y los viajes internacionales, especialmente para quienes cuentan con visas F-1, J-1 y H-1B. Instamos a todos los estudiantes, docentes y personal internacional a mantenerse informados revisando las guías de viaje y asegurándose de contar con la documentación migratoria actualizada.
Una forma poderosa de responder ante estos desafíos es ejercer el derecho a comunicarse con sus representantes en el Congreso. Defender sus derechos e intereses es una forma protegida de participación democrática y una herramienta fundamental para que su voz sea escuchada.
A continuación, hemos recopilado recursos organizados en tres áreas clave: Conozca sus Derechos, Actualizaciones sobre Inmigración y Visas, y Servicios de Bienestar para Profesores y Personal. Les animamos a explorarlos y compartirlos.
Know Your Rights
ICE on Campus – What You Need to Know
Guidance on how to respond if approached by ICE officers on University property.
🔗 FAQ: ICE Officers on University of Illinois Property
ICE Red Cards / Tarjetas Rojas
Printable cards in Spanish that help individuals understand and assert their rights during encounters with immigration agents.
Artwork for Printing Your Own Red Cards – PDF available here
AAUP Toolkit on Targeted Harassment of Faculty
Resources for faculty facing harassment, with a focus on free speech and academic freedom.
🔗 AAUP: Targeted Harassment of Faculty
University of Illinois Non-Discrimination Policy
Statement affirming the University’s commitment to equity and inclusion for all.
🔗 View Policy
Report an Incident
Online form for reporting bias, discrimination, or harassment.
🔗 Submit a Report
Immigration & Visa Updates
Open Illinois: Support for Undocumented and DACA Students
Comprehensive resources, legal updates, and support systems for undocumented and DACAmented students.
🔗 Visit Open Illinois
UIUC Immigration Law Clinic
Offers legal advice and representation to members of the campus community.
🔗 Learn More
CUNY Immigration Updates
A trusted external source with breaking national news and resources for immigrants.
🔗 CUNY Immigration Services & Updates
Federal Updates at UIUC
A centralized university page with guidance related to DHS, ICE, and evolving federal policies.
🔗 Visit the Federal Updates Page
ISSS Blog: Updates for International Students & Scholars
Current information on visa status, travel restrictions, and procedural changes.
🔗 Subscribe to the ISSS Blog
Revocation of Visas for International Students
Recent updates on the revocation of F-1 and J-1 visas due to student activism and related concerns.
🔗 Inside Higher Ed Report – Visa Revocations
Travel Guidelines for International Students & Faculty
Best practices for traveling to and from the U.S., including document checks, emergency contacts, and digital security.
Recommendations include:
- Valid passport (6+ months)
- All immigration documents
- Notify a trusted contact at key travel checkpoints
- Be mindful of content on digital devices
Faculty/Staff Well-being Services
Faculty and Staff Assistance Program
Emotional and practical support for faculty and staff navigating uncertainty, stress, or legal complications.
🔗 Faculty/Staff Well-being Services
Contact Your Representatives
Make your voice heard by reaching out to elected officials: