President Wim Wiewel Declares PSU a Sanctuary University

(Portland, Ore.) — Portland State President Wim Wiewel today declared the university “a sanctuary campus dedicated to the principles of equity, diversity and safety.”

In a message to faculty, staff and students, Wiewel affirmed PSU’s commitment to the protection and support of all PSU students in response to concerns about possible immigration law changes. In particular, concerns have been raised regarding the safety and wellbeing of undocumented students and those covered by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. 

“Together, I ask that we reaffirm our unequivocal commitment to each other,” Wiewel stated. “All Portland State students, regardless of national origin or immigration status, should be welcome, safe and able to pursue their higher education as full members of the PSU family.”

Being a sanctuary campus means:

• The Portland State University Campus Public Safety Office does not and will not enforce federal immigration laws as is required by state law.
• Portland State University will not facilitate or consent to immigration enforcement activities on our campus unless legally compelled to do so or in the event of clear exigent circumstances such as an imminent risk to the health or safety of others.
• Portland State University will not share confidential student information, such as immigration status, with the federal government unless required by court order.

Read Wiewel’s full message is on the PSU website