SPRINGFIELD – Undocumented students across Illinois are facing new uncertainty over access to financial aid following a recent court ruling stemming from a lawsuit brought by the Trump administration’s Department of Justice. In response, members of the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus released the following statement:
“The Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus stands in solidarity with the thousands of undocumented students who could be financially impacted by this ruling and the uncertainty it has created for students and families across Illinois.
“Illinois has made significant progress in expanding educational opportunities to all students, no matter their background. We remain committed to protecting that progress and working alongside students, families, educators and community partners to support access to higher education.
“At a time when students should be focused on their classes, coursework and milestones like move-in day, those moments are being overshadowed by uncertainty and fear about whether they will be able to continue their education.
“Let us be clear. This is yet another example of the Trump administration looking for ways to attack immigrant communities. It continues their pattern of creating uncertainty and chaos, this time as college and university semesters are set to begin.
“The Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus is actively working to connect those potentially impacted with community organizations and agencies for support. We encourage students and families to monitor the Illinois Student Assistance Commission’s website for updates. We will also work with partners, educators and students to defend the progress made to make higher education accessible to everyone.”
