Resident Assistant (RA) Guide Supporting Students with Immigration Concerns
Your Role as an RA
As an RA, you are a resource and support system for students. If a student shares concerns about immigration or ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), your role is to listen, provide emotional support, and connect them with appropriate campus and legal resources. You are not expected to give legal advice.
- Listen and Provide Emotional Support
✅ Be empathetic – Let the student share their concerns without fear of judgment.
✅ Maintain confidentiality – Do not disclose the student’s concerns unless directed by professional staff.
✅ Encourage them to seek support – Remind them that the university has resources to help.
Do NOT provide legal advice – Immigration matters are complex and require professional guidance.
- Direct the Student to Resources
Marymount University Resources
- Support Resources for Undocumented Students
- Office of International Student Services (OISS) – Immigration advising and support.
- A.B.I.D.E Hub – Advocacy, programming, and support for undocumented students.
- Saints Unafraid (Student Organization) – A student-led group supporting undocumented students and allies.
- Student Ombuds Office – Assistance navigating university policies.
- Student Counseling Services – Free and confidential mental health counseling.
- Student Health Services – Medical services, vaccinations, and affordable care resources.
External Legal & Advocacy Resources
Provide students with contact information for reputable immigration support organizations:
- Alianza Americas – Advocacy for Latin American immigrants on policy and legal resources.
- Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC) – Legal aid and policy advocacy for AAPI communities.
- Haitian Bridge Alliance (HBA) – Legal services and advocacy for Haitian and Black immigrants.
- Immigrant Justice Network (IJN) – Support for immigrants impacted by the criminal legal system.
- UndocuBlack Network – Resources and advocacy for undocumented Black immigrants.
- Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services – Located in Alexandria, VA
- American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
- National Immigration Law Center (NILC)
- United We Dream
- Legal Aid Justice Center (VA-based students)
- Amica Center for Immigrant Rights – Free legal aid for deportation defense and asylum.
- Ayuda – Immigration legal services in the DMV area.
- Central American Resource Center (CARECEN-DC) – Legal representation for DACA, asylum, and family petitions.
- National Immigration Legal Services Directory – Searchable database for free or low-cost legal services.
- How to Find an Immigration Lawyer (Informed Immigrant, 2024) – Guide to locating legal assistance.
- Beyond DACA: Immigration Options (Immigrants Rising, 2024) – Guide to alternative pathways to residency.
If the Student is Concerned About ICE Actions
Students should know their rights if approached by ICE or law enforcement:
✅ Right to remain silent – They do not have to answer questions about their status.
✅ Right to refuse entry – ICE cannot enter their room or residence without a warrant.
✅ Right to a lawyer – They should not sign anything without legal representation.
If a student is worried about an immediate ICE-related situation, refer them to the Office of the General Counsel.
Mental Health and Wellness Resources
- Immigrants Rising Support Groups – Virtual and in-person groups for undocumented individuals.
- Open Path Collective – Low-cost mental health counseling for those without insurance.
- UndocuHealth – Online workshops and mental health strategies for undocumented individuals.
- Virginia Association of Free and Charitable Clinics – Network providing free mental health care.
National Legislation Updates and Resources
- Immigrant Legal Resource Center – Tracks immigration policy changes.
- National Immigration Law Center – Policy analysis and advocacy.
- United We Dream – Immigration activism and policy updates.
Resources for Faculty and Staff
- Guidance for Higher Education on Immigrant Student Privacy & FERPA
- Higher Ed Immigration Portal – Data, policy updates, and best practices for universities.
- Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration – University coalition advocating for undocumented students.
- Undocumented Immigrants and Allies Knowledge Community (NASPA) – Research and training for supporting undocumented students.
Escalate to Professional Staff When Necessary
If the student requires immediate assistance, notify the Office of General Counsel / phone: 703-526-6962 or email:
And inform your Residence Life Coordinator or the Director of Student Living for further guidance.
Quick Contact Guide
Office of the General Counsel
phone: 703-526-6962
email:
International Student and Scholar Services
phone: 1-703-526-6922
email:
Division of Access, Belonging, and Culture
phone: 703-284-3323
email:
Student Counseling Services
phone: 703-526-6861
email:
Student Health Services
phone: 703-284-1610
email:
Stay informed. Stay supportive. Know your resources.
