As part of the NIU community, there are many ways you can support our undocumented students. Keep these general tips in mind:
Use the term "undocumented," not "illegal."
Don't ask students to tell you their immigration status. If they do tell you, keep it confidential.
Refer students to us for support.
Consider the following ways to get more involved:
We encourage students, staff, faculty and community members to attend the Undocumented Ally Training offered by the Office of Undocumented Student Support and DREAM Action NIU student organization. This training is offered once per semester in the fall and spring. After training, display a sign on your office door stating your support of undocumented students.
Donate to the Immediate Assistance Fund, which provides small grants to help students with tuition, rent, books, etc. Be sure to specify that your donation should be directed to the fund.
You can support undocumented students by joining Faculty Advocates for Undocumented Students. This group of faculty, instructors, staff and others have shown their support by:
Raising funds for the Immediate Assistance Fund and DACA renewals.
Participating in the Coming Out of the Shadows rally and march.
Promoting understanding of issues facing undocumented students, particularly in the classroom.
For more information, contact Beatrix Hoffman at beatrix@niu.edu.
Syllabus Statement
We encourage faculty and instructors to include a statement in their syllabi about resources for undocumented students. Here's a suggested statement:
Undocumented students: You are welcome in this class. NIU's Office of Undocumented Student Support can help you with advising, campus services, scholarship information and other resources. Their services are confidential and are also open to students from mixed-status families.