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Immigration Response Guidance

Statement of our Values

At Macalester, we choose to live and learn together, united by a shared desire to create a more just and peaceful world. As new federal orders understandably raise uncertainty and concern,  our purpose remains unchanged, and we affirm our longstanding values. We are committed to  protecting the privacy, upholding the rights, and supporting the flourishing of every member of the Macalester community. We celebrate our diversity, knowing that it makes us stronger.

Guidance if US Immigration and Customs Enforcement comes to campus

This resource outlines steps for the Macalester community to follow if Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents or other external agencies come to campus. This document is not legal advice; it provides guiding principles to protect the rights and privacy of students, staff, and faculty. This page will be updated as necessary.

Please contact Alina Wong, Vice President for Institutional Equity, with questions or suggestions regarding this guidance.

Access to Macalester campus and buildings

While Macalester is a private institution, areas that are open to the general public are not restricted. It is important to note the distinction between public access and restricted areas on campus.

Access Categories

Public AccessRestricted Access
Description:
Public access areas are open to the general public and where entry is not restricted. Public-access buildings may be locked outside of regular operating hours.		Description:
Restricted access buildings require a key card or have locked doors. 
Examples:
Campus Center common areas, Weyerhaeuser common areas, outdoor walkways, grounds, and parking lots		Examples:
Residence halls, administrative and academic buildings, Leonard Center, library
ICE/Law Enforcement Access:
ICE or other law enforcement may enter public areas without permission. 		ICE/Law Enforcement Access:
Valid judicial warrants, signed by a judicial officer, are required to enter these spaces. Access must be granted within the scope of the warrant.
Administrative warrants from the Department of Homeland Security require permission from Macalester to enter restricted spaces.

Steps to take if approached or contacted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement or other Law Enforcement

To protect  the privacy and safety of our community, we have established processes and designated college officials to respond to queries by external agencies or individuals. If you are approached by Immigration and Customs Enforcement or other external entities:

  1. Stay composed to avoid escalating the situation. 
  2. Protect student and employee privacy.
    • Do not answer questions or provide personally identifiable information about yourself or anyone else. Personally identifiable information  includes name, contact information, class lists, student schedules, etc.
    • Comply with FERPA and HIPAA regulations by not disclosing private information to entities from outside the campus.
  3. Contact Public Safety.
    • Inform the external agent(s) that you are not obstructing their process and that you will contact Public Safety, who will respond to their inquiry.
      • Call Public Safety at 651-696-6555.
      • Inform Public Safety of your location. An officer will come to your location.
      • Please note that you are not required to answer questions or speak to an immigration officer.
    • External agencies or individuals will be directed by Public Safety to the appropriate designated college official. 
      • Macalester has designated Bethany Miller, Associate Provost & Chief Data Officer and Deb Ekeren, Director of Human Resources, to respond to external agencies. They are informed about required warrants and documentation for information requests, as well as the rights and responsibilities of the college.
      • Designated Official Phone Number: 651-696-6777

Additional support for students, faculty, and staff

Reminders about Public Safety at Macalester

Macalester Public Safety strives to serve the campus community in a manner that is respectful, courteous, responsive, and efficient. Public Safety honors the worth, dignity, and the rights of all members of our campus community. Public Safety will never ask for documents related to immigration and citizenship status or gender identity.