Regardless of any election outcome, the English Skills Learning Center’s (ESLC) message is always going to be in support of “integrating and strengthening communities,” as that is the mission of the ESLC. Our work is centered around supporting immigrants and refugees in Utah and that commitment doesn’t change based on who is in federal, state, or local office.
That said, we understand that moments of political change can bring uncertainty, particularly regarding immigration, deportation, and safety. To help navigate fears and requests we are receiving daily, we’ve put together this packet with knowledge and resources that may be helpful to you or your loved ones.
***Please save the link to this page. We will be updating this information as we continue to learn more.***
Ways the ESLC Can Support You
Educational Opportunities: English language and civics classes, as well as teacher training workshops, will continue as scheduled to help you build skills for your future.
Community Connection: Join us to find support and encouragement in a welcoming and inclusive space.
Resource Sharing: We can connect you with trusted organizations that specialize in immigration, legal aid, and mental health support.
Ways the ESLC Cannot Support You
Legal Representation: We cannot provide legal advice or representation for immigration cases or other legal matters. Instead, we can connect you with trusted legal organizations or attorneys who specialize in immigration.
Emergency Shelter or Financial Aid: We are not equipped to provide emergency housing, financial assistance, or crisis intervention services. We can share information about community organizations that specialize in these types of support.
Student or Work Visa Sponsorship: The ESLC does not qualify under the student visa requirements, and unfortunately, our limited budget does not allow for employee visa sponsorship.
Deciding What is Safe for You: We cannot determine what is safe for you or your family in specific situations. Every person’s circumstances are unique, and these decisions are deeply personal. Our role is to listen without judgment and to provide tools, resources, and referrals to help you make informed decisions.
Navigating Difficult Conversations
During times of division, we are often faced with navigating difficult conversations. At the ESLC, we encourage everyone to enter conversations by:
Leading with Empathy
Share your thoughts and listen to others with care.
Focusing on Facts, Not Fear
Use reliable sources when discussing changes in policy or law.
Avoiding Assumptions
Respect people’s experiences and decisions as they are individualized and personal.
Know Your Rights
Everyone, regardless of immigration status, has rights under the U.S. Constitution. Understanding your rights can help you feel more prepared and empowered in uncertain situations. Below are resources you may find helpful.
Here are a few important reminders about your rights.
If approached by authorities, you have the right to remain silent and to speak with a lawyer.
Do not sign anything you do not understand.
Keep important documents in a safe and easily accessible place.
Local Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I keep my family safe?
We encourage families to make a safety plan. This might include ensuring everyone knows their rights, having a list of emergency contacts, and keeping important documents in a safe place.
Am I going to be deported?
Deportation decisions are made by federal authorities and depend on individual circumstances. We recommend seeking legal advice from trusted immigration lawyers or advocacy organizations if you are concerned about your status. The ESLC cannot provide legal advice, but we can connect you with resources to help.
Is my personal information safe with ESLC?
We respect your privacy and do not share personal information without your consent, except as required by law. Outside of the Citizenship Program and Workplace English Program, the ESLC also does not collect or store information about immigration status. To be clear, we will never initiate contact with ICE.
Am I safe coming to class?
While we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone, we cannot decide what feels safe for you and your individual circumstances. That said, our focus is on education and community support, not on anyone’s immigration status. While we cannot control external factors, we take privacy seriously and do not share personal information without your consent, except as required by law. If you have specific concerns about safety, please let us know, and we will do our best to provide support or connect you with trusted resources. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to support you.
What should we do if an ICE agent comes to our class?
While the ESLC will never initiate contact with ICE, ICE Agents might come to class or the ESLC office to request information about individuals. Staff, teachers, and students all have the right to remain silent. If asked to share names, statuses, countries of origin, contact information, or other questions, you can refuse. Often officials will ask questions openly to see what information people are willing to share outright, but it does not mean that you are always required to comply. You have the right to record any conversations or interactions. You can always ask "Am I free to leave?" to determine if anyone is being charged or held.
What do I tell students?
Don't create additional fear. It's important to combat fear with facts. If students are asking for support or information, you can faciliate facts-based conversations with them in class. Be mindful of your word choice. Acknowledge that your life experiences may not be the same experiences that others have. Consider using translation services so important information is not misunderstood, which can lead to increased fear.
Students should know that they have the right to remain silent, the right to refuse a search of their person or possessions (without a warrant or probable cause), and the right to speak first with a lawyer before answering any questions. Students can ask very clearly, “Am I free to leave?” if they wish to leave at any time in the presence of ICE or law enforcement officers.
Be mindful of your word choice when speaking with students. No individual has the right to tell another person that they will be “safe” in a certain space. Each individual has to examine their own situation and determine where they will feel safe. We can, however, let people know that they are welcome to continue coming to class and that we are here to support them however we can.
What if they do have a warrant?
A valid search warrant must be signed by a judge and should specify the location to search and what law enforcement is looking for. Confirm this information before agreeing to a search.
How do I answer questions about documentation?
The English Skills Learning Center is required to collect documentation about naturalization eligibility and work authorization in our Citizenship and Workplace English classes. Outside of those requirements, we do not have the capacity to collect this information on every ESLC student. If you do not feel comfortable answering questions, you can always decline and reroute questions to Katie Donoviel, our Executive Director.
What if I have further questions?
Contact your program mentor, teacher, or the ESLC's Executive Director, Katie Donoviel. We will try help you the best we can.