Students share their stories of resilience and support at Orange Coast College.
Students at Orange Coast College are navigating uncertainty and fear due to recent immigration policies under the Trump administration. With many facing visa issues, the college has established support services like the Undocuscholars Center. Parents are also concerned about significant cuts to childcare services, impacting their ability to balance work and education. Despite these challenges, the community is coming together to advocate for support and inclusion for all students, regardless of immigration status.
In the vibrant community of Orange, California, students at Orange Coast College (OCC) are sharing their stories of uncertainty and resilience in light of recent immigration policies introduced under the Trump administration. On a day with cloudy skies transitioning to partly cloudy in the afternoon, around 63°F, students gathered to discuss the increasing challenges they face as immigrants and children of immigrants.
Rafael Carrera, one of the students addressing the issue, spoke about growing up as a son of immigrant parents. He highlighted the deep sense of fear that has accompanied the recent changes in policies affecting international students and their right to education. Following the inauguration of Trump, students with F-1 visas have been particularly vulnerable, with over 1,800 students nationwide reporting issues with their visa statuses.
The political climate has left many students feeling anxious as they navigate their academic paths. With executive orders targeting noncitizens, uncertainties loom large over those involved in activism or having minor infractions. This has created an atmosphere where even students considered to have quiet statuses are now worried about losing their visas.
To help tackle these issues, OCC established the Undocuscholars Center which provides crucial support services for undocumented students. These include assistance with scholarship applications, textbook and transportation support, and an extensive ally network to help those in need. Additionally, colleges across the nation are forming initiatives, such as the Allyship Collaborative, to guide and protect immigrant and international students in uncertain times.
Many students, including international students like Sakurako Ryu, are feeling the pressure. As a hospitality major, she expressed her growing fears about securing an F-1 visa as variations in the immigration policies intensify. Schools from Arizona State to UC Los Angeles have already seen international students’ visas revoked, marking a distressing shift in higher education.
Parents, too, are concerned about their children’s futures, especially regarding the significant cuts to childcare services scheduled at OCC’s Harry and Grace Steele Children’s Center. Starting in July 2025, the number of available spots for children will drop from 105 to 48, creating a precarious situation for parents trying to juggle work and education. With projected deficits reaching $630,000 for the fiscal year, the college is considering downscaling services, which is worrying many families.
Despite the hardships, the community continues to engage in important dialogues. Parents are expressing their willingness to consider increased fees for childcare services to prevent drastic cuts as they believe that a supportive environment is essential for maintaining their educational pursuits. The college administration is prioritizing students for the remaining childcare spots, but many parents remain anxious about future availability and care options.
In this evolving landscape, community efforts are also paving the way for greater representation and communication. Betty Martinez-Franco, projected to be the first Latina councilwoman in Irvine, symbolizes the importance of diversity in local governance. Her story of overcoming obstacles as a single mother resonates with many and serves as a reminder of the tremendous strength present within the community.
As California moves forward with legislation like SB 48, aiming to restrict immigration enforcement in schools, students and families are clinging to hope for a more stable environment. This legislation reflects a commitment to ensuring that every student, regardless of their immigration status, has the right to pursue their education without fear.
The journey for students at OCC is filled with challenges, but their resilience and the community’s support are powerful forces driving them forward. The road ahead may be uncertain, but the determination to overcome obstacles remains as strong as ever.
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