By Shira Kramer, Managing Editor
With President Donald Trump’s return to the White House and the new administration’s changes regarding certain immigration policies, Yeshiva University sent an email reminding international students to always carry their required documentation with them. The email also provided an attachment for students about their rights, should they be approached by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent.
During his inauguration speech, President Trump promised to fast-track deportations. Additionally, the new president reversed a policy that prohibited ICE from making arrests in places of worship and schools.
With fear of deportation on the rise, many universities are encouraging their international students to keep documentation on them at all times. Yeshiva University Associate Dean of Students Joe Bednarsh emailed the student body on January 30.
“As a result of increased oversight of foreign nationals inside the U.S., we are sending out a reminder that foreign nationals are required by law at all times to carry a paper copy of your most recent I-94,” Bednarsh said in the email. “If you or someone you know is undocumented, know that if you are approached by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent, you have rights.”
Sarah Barber (SSSB ‘28), a student from Belgium, was not too concerned when she read Bednarsh’s email. “As long as my papers are in order, I’m not really worried,” Barber told the YU Observer. “It made me realize how tricky living in the U.S. can be for immigrants, not just international students.”
Barber also said that she always carries her passport with her. However, Israeli student Mor Goozi (SCW ‘28) told the YU Observer that she keeps her paperwork on her phone. She added that the administration stressed the importance of carrying documentation at all times during orientation for international students.
Goozi said that the YU administration has been very helpful for international students. “The office already provides all the information I’ve ever needed, and I know they’re always available if I have questions,” she said. “Their responses are detailed and timely, so I don’t feel like I’m missing any resources.”
British student Minna Katz (SCW ‘26) told the YU Observer that while the administration’s concern for international students’ safety is endearing, it isn’t necessary. “I assume that YU sent the email to cover their bases and mitigate potential liabilities, however I don’t think there’s anything more they can or need to do,” Katz said. “Ultimately, maintaining my visa status is my responsibility.”
Bednarsh told the YU Observer that while the university has not been contacted by ICE, the email was sent to be proactive and helpful for students.
“We have a sacred responsibility to care for students and I would not want any student to go through what might be a traumatic experience,” Bednarsh said. “I believe that with the new administration’s enforcement strategy most universities are communicating with their students about this and while it isn’t a requirement we thought it was prudent.”
Photo Caption: Yeshiva University’s Wilf campus
Photo Credit: Yeshiva University