NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WMOT) -- Middle Tennessee’s largest universities are among the most outspoken critics of President Donald Trump’s decision to phase out the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.
DACA currently shields some 8,000 undocumented young people living in Tennessee from deportation.
The presidents of Vanderbilt, Middle Tennessee State, Lipscomb, and Trevecca were all quick to issue statements decrying Trump’s decision.
Belmont President Dr. Bob Fisher had perhaps the most forceful statement , saying in part “Today’s announcement is a betrayal of trust to countless young people—including several of our own successful alumni.”
University of Tennessee affiliated schools are a notable exception. UT schools do not admit DACA students.
Here are links to statements from several mid-state schools:
The MTSU Statement follows:
To the University community,
We are carefully watching as the federal government's decision to phase out the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program begins to unfold. The initial announcements and news coverage have created considerable and understandable concern to both our own MTSU Dreamers as well as their friends, families, and supporters.
I am writing to signal again our support for all of our students, but particularly today those who are scared and uncertain about the future because of this development. It is a fluid situation that we will continue to monitor. To our students in need of counseling or other services, please contact our MTSU Counseling Services, Intercultural and Diversity Affairs Center, or the office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.
A fact sheet that better explains this decision can be found on the Department of Homeland Security’s website.
Meanwhile, we encourage our elected representatives and federal officials to search for a permanent solution, and to reach a conclusion in advance of the close of the six-month deferred-enforcement window that has been announced.
Sincerely,
Sidney A. McPhee
President
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