Guidance for Immigration-Related Enforcement
We understand that immigration-related issues can create uncertainty and anxiety for
members of the Harper College community. This guidance is intended to provide clarity
on campus protocols, rights and available resources. We will continue to monitor developments
at the state and federal levels and update this information as needed.
- Harper Police will not assist with immigration enforcement unless required by law or a judicial warrant is presented.
- Students and employees have rights regardless of immigration status, including the right to remain silent and the right to refuse entry without a valid
judicial warrant.
- FERPA (a federal student privacy law) protects student information, including immigration and citizenship status.
If immigration agents contact you, ask about the whereabouts of an individual, or
request access to a person, classroom or workspace:
- Call Harper College Police immediately at 847.925.6330.
- Do not interfere or put yourself at risk.
Harper is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone
can learn, work and thrive.
FAQs
How Federal Policy Affects Harper
- What does federal immigration policy mean for Harper College?
Federal immigration authorities have the legal authority to conduct enforcement operations.
However, Harper College remains committed to providing a safe and supportive learning
environment. We will continue to uphold the rights of our students and employees while
complying with applicable law.
- How likely is immigration enforcement activity on campus?
Historically, enforcement actions at colleges and universities have been rare. While
we cannot predict the future, Harper continues to prepare itself through training,
legal consultation and the providing information and resources.
Campus Safety and Response Protocols
- What should I do if federal agents come to campus?
If immigration agents contact you, ask about the whereabouts of an individual, or
request access to a person, classroom or workspace:
- Call Harper College Police immediately at 847.925.6330.
- Do not interfere or place yourself in danger.
- If you are at the Education and Work Center or Partners for Our Communities, call
911 first, then Harper police.
- Remind students they have rights, including the right to remain silent.
- What role do Harper police play in these situations?
Harper police will:
- Verify credentials and warrants.
- Ensure compliance with the law while protecting the rights of our community.
- Restrict federal immigration agents from non-public areas (classrooms, offices) unless
a valid judicial warrant is presented.
- Decline to share student records or information without a warrant signed by a federal
judge.
- Will Harper police assist with immigration enforcement?
No. Under the Illinois TRUST Act and guidance from the Illinois Attorney General,
local and state law enforcement cannot enforce federal immigration laws or assist
with immigration enforcement unless required by federal law or a judicial warrant
is presented.
- Should classroom doors be kept closed?
Yes. Faculty are encouraged to keep classroom doors closed as a best practice for
overall campus safety. If approached by federal agents, contact Harper police immediately.
Warrants: What’s Required for Access
- What type of warrant grants access to Harper facilities?
- Administrative warrants (not signed by a judge) do not grant access to non-public areas without consent.
- Criminal / Judicial warrants (signed by a judge) allow access, and compliance is required. Harper police will assess
and verify the legitimacy of warrants and credentials.
- Can federal agents enter classrooms or offices without a warrant?
No. Access to non-public areas requires either consent or a judicial warrant. If you
are approached, call Harper police immediately.
Know Your Rights and Available Support
- What rights do undocumented students and employees have?
- Everyone has rights under the U.S. Constitution, regardless of immigration status.
- This includes the right to remain silent and the right to refuse entry without a valid
warrant.
- The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects student information,
including immigration or citizenship status. Colleges may not disclose this information
without proper authorization.
Please refer to this resources page for a list of immigration, legal, financial and mental health resources; among these
resources is a link to ACLU guidance on what to do and say if you’ve been stopped by police or federal immigration agents.
- What should I tell students or colleagues who are worried?
Reassure them that:
- Everyone has legal protections.
- Harper is committed to being a supportive, inclusive environment.
- Encourage individuals to review Know Your Rights resources and seek legal guidance if needed. A list of immigration, legal, financial and mental
health resources is available on our resources page.
Key Contacts and Support Offices
For additional questions, please contact:
Note: Federal officials may be on campus for reasons unrelated to enforcement. For
example, the college is required to provide information and comply with on-site visits
for international students with F-1 or J-1 visas.
