Students, faculty and staff,
The two weeks since new leadership took office in Washington D.C. has been marked by change and uncertainty. As we work to gain clarity on what the many and ongoing changes from federal entities will mean, we remain steadfastly committed to our community and our mission. We will continue to share updates as we gather information and gain a clearer understanding of the evolving landscape.
Today, we write to provide clarification regarding the January 28 message about the rights of immigration enforcement officials to enter spaces at the University of Michigan. While classrooms are restricted areas that require a warrant for entry, the guidance mistakenly said that classroom buildings are similarly restricted. That was incorrect, as many classroom buildings include public areas that are open to both the general public and law enforcement. The guidance has been updated accordingly.
The university remains committed to complying with federal and state law. Members of our community must not obstruct or interfere in any way with the actions of law enforcement, including representatives of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
To reiterate the information shared in our earlier message, UM’s campus is largely open to the public and, as such, law enforcement officers may enter public areas without a warrant. However, access to campus is limited in areas that are locked, monitored or require a university-issued ID card. This includes private areas of university residence halls, including hallways, living and sleeping quarters and common and meeting areas. It also includes other spaces with concerns for privacy, safety and operational needs, including, but not limited to, administrative or faculty offices, locker rooms, classrooms and laboratories.
If you encounter federal immigration enforcement on campus:
- Do Not Interfere:
– Do not obstruct the actions of law enforcement officers.
- Notify the University:
-Contact the Division of Public Safety and Security:
- 734-763-1131, Ann Arbor
- 313-593-5333, Dearborn
- 810-762-3333, Flint
-Programing these numbers into your phone is a good practice.
-Do not accept a subpoena on behalf of another person or on behalf of a university office, even if you are employed by that office. If you are presented with an arrest or search warrant, ask the agent or officer to please wait patiently so that you may contact university authorities to review the warrant and provide assistance. Then, contact the Office of the General Counsel at 734-764-0304 or DPSS at the number above.
-As always, in an emergency, call 911. - Document the Situation:
-You have the right to document the interaction. However, you should maintain a safe distance. You may not resist or otherwise interfere with the actions of law enforcement.
The university continues to post updates and guidance related to federal actions on our Key Issues page. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to the university and to each other.
Sincerely,
Chris Kolb
Vice President for Government Relations
Tim Lynch
Vice President and General Counsel