International students at Cleveland State University on Feb. 11 met staff at CSU's Center for International Services and Programs (CISP) to voice growing concerns about their legal status and safety following the election of President Donald Trump, whose administration has sparked anxiety with aggressive anti-immigration policies, including the targeting of students.

The meeting, held at CSU’s CISP office, was prompted by rising anxiety among international students given the newly elected president's anti-immigration rhetoric and erratic policy shifts. Students sought guidance and support from university staff on issues that included concern about visa status, work authorization and their personal safety.

Dr. CK Kwai, Director of CISP, reassured international students during the meeting that, while anxiety around immigration policies is understandable, there have been no changes to F-1 visa regulations. He emphasized the importance of staying informed. 

“As long as you maintain your status and follow the law, there’s really nothing to fear,” Kwai said. "We are still a country of law, and as long as you don’t break it, you should be fine.”

Cleveland State has a thriving body of international students seeking to further their education. But for many of them, Trump's election triggered memories of bans the president put on immigrants from primarily Muslim-majority countries during his first term.

“Hearing about Trump’s win reminded me of the Muslim ban he instated when first elected,” said one international student who asked not to be named. “As someone from the Middle East, it’s easy to feel targeted."

The student said CSU's support was reassuring. "Knowing that CISP is here to provide information is very comforting.”

Protecting student rights; extent of ICE's authority

As the political climate continues to evolve, CISP is encouraging international students to stay informed and proactive about their legal status. The center remains a key resource for students, offering updates and guidance on immigration policies, as well as providing support in navigating any challenges that may arise.

CISP urges students to regularly update their personal information, stay in compliance with visa requirements, and take advantage of resources like the I-20 form and state IDs for added protection. The center says that maintaining communication with CISP and being aware of their rights will help students navigate the current immigration landscape and ensure they are better equipped to handle any developments.

International students should be aware of their rights if stopped by ICE. They have the constitutional right to remain silent and are not required to answer questions about their immigration status. Additionally, students have the right to request to speak with a lawyer and to contact their consulate if detained. It’s also advisable to carry an I-20 form, which can be easily reprinted if lost, and obtaining a state ID can provide additional identification. These rights offer crucial protections during encounters with law enforcement agencies.