Recommendation Number: 20250329-005: Providing Resources for Immigrant Students — original pdf

Recommendation

BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Immigrant Affairs Recommendation Number: 2025032905: Providing Resources for Immigrant Students WHEREAS, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs was established to advise the city council on matters of common concern to immigrants, particularly in the areas of health and human services, education, and the demographic makeup of the Austin immigrant community; and WHEREAS, recent tragic events, such as the suicide of Jocelynn Rojo-Carranza, an 11-year-old girl who was bullied over her family’s immigration status, highlight the severe and devastating impacts of immigration-related discrimination and the lack of adequate protections within schools; and WHEREAS, reports from immigrant families in Austin indicate that increased raids and threats of deportation have created a climate of fear, deterring families from seeking assistance, accessing education, or reporting incidents of violence or harassment for fear of being separated; and WHEREAS, immigrants in Austin, including students, face systemic challenges, bullying, harassment, and an overall lack of understanding about their rights and protections; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has a responsibility to ensure that all residents, irrespective of immigration status, have access to the resources and support they need to thrive and that our schools provide a safe environment where all children can learn without fear of discrimination or retaliation; and WHEREAS, access to information about immigration laws and rights continues to be a barrier for many immigrants and their families, exacerbating their vulnerability, fostering distrust of local institutions, and jeopardizing their constitutional due process rights; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Commission on Immigrant Affairs of the City of Austin recommends that the city council allocate $250,000 in funding to support supplies and materials necessary for the implementation of immigrant student protections, rights to education, and family support services. This funding will ensure: 1. Traditional and Digital Media Distribution of Know Your Rights Materials a) Production of multilingual Know Your Rights guides tailored for students, families, and educators. b) Distribution of materials across all public schools, libraries, and community centers across the city prioritizing areas with Title I schools and communities with high immigrant populations (materials include, but are not limited to, “Know Your Rights” cards and Family Preparedness one-pagers). c) Development of digital and print resources for easy access through the City of Austin website and social media channels. 2. Development of Toolkits a) Creation of toolkits that include training materials and engagement resources on immigration rights and protections in partnership with Austin ISD. b) Funding an anonymous reporting system to allow students and community members to safely report instances of bullying or discrimination. c) Training sessions for school staff on responding to immigration-related concerns and ensuring a safe environment for all students. 3. Support for Community Outreach and Coordination with Community-Based Organizations a) Strengthening partnerships with immigrant advocacy groups providing direct support services for students and families facing immigration related challenges. b) Funding for translation and interpretation services to ensure accessibility of information across diverse linguistic communities. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, The Commission on Immigrant Affairs urges the city to ensure fair distribution of materials and resources, prioritizing areas with Title I schools and communities with high immigrant populations. The city should establish an accountability and reporting system to monitor the effectiveness of these efforts and foster continuous improvements. THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the city should reaffirm its commitment to "Welcoming city" policies. The Commission also recommends the allocation of $250,000 to support supplies, educational materials, outreach, and partnerships that enhance protections and resources for immigrant students and families. Date of Approval: __3/29/2025____________ Record of the vote: Unanimous Vote: 7-0 on Miriam Dorantes (Vice Chair) 1st and Aditi Joshi’s 2nd. For: Melissa Ortega (Chair), Adrian De La Rosa, Azeem Edwin, Canan Kaba, Yohana Saucedo Attest: _____Gunjen Mittal_____________ (Staff or board member can sign)