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Chicago Public Schools and Teachers Union Declare Sanctuary Status

In a joint letter released on Thursday, the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) and the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) reaffirmed their commitment to being “sanctuary” spaces for all students, parents, employees, and community members engaged in school-related activities. The letter, signed by CPS Chief Executive Officer Pedro Martinez and CTU President Stacy Davis Gates, aims to address the concerns and anxieties expressed by many stakeholders about the potential impact of the new presidential administration on CPS.

The two educational entities had previously reached a collective bargaining agreement in 2019, solidifying their stance as sanctuary spaces. The letter outlines how CPS and CTU plan to uphold their promise of ensuring the safety and rights of all students within their school communities.

Protections for Immigrant Students and Families

The joint letter emphasizes that when students are being registered, school personnel are instructed to make the process as accessible as possible. Families without a permanent address are to be guided according to the Students in Temporary Living Situations (STLS) guidelines. Furthermore, staff are prohibited from inquiring about a student’s or family member’s immigration status and retaining any related information.

Additionally, the letter details that CPS staff will receive training on how to appropriately respond to ICE agents seeking access to school property. The proactive measures aim to assist students and families facing immigration-related issues while adhering to Chicago’s “welcoming city” ordinance, which prohibits local law enforcement from engaging in federal immigration enforcement unless a warrant signed by a federal judge is presented.

Community Response and Criticisms

The reaffirmation of CPS and CTU as sanctuary spaces comes amidst heightened concerns about potential mass deportations and increased enforcement efforts under the new presidential administration. Chicago residents, faith leaders, and activists have expressed mixed reactions to the evolving immigration landscape within the city.

Critics have questioned the allocation of city funds to support migrants, highlighting the financial burden imposed by services like Chicago’s New Arrivals Mission. The recent blockage of a proposal allowing local law enforcement to assist ICE in detaining migrants with criminal records sparked both support and opposition from various community members and organizations.

CTU Stands Firm Against Anti-Immigrant Measures

The Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) has actively opposed initiatives that target immigrant communities, particularly in collaboration with federal immigration authorities. CTU’s Financial Secretary Maria Mareno denounced efforts to endanger vulnerable populations and align with mass deportation plans, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and protection for immigrant students and families.

As Chicago grapples with the complexities of immigration policy and enforcement, the unified stance of CPS and CTU as sanctuary spaces reflects a commitment to fostering safe, inclusive, and supportive environments for all members of the school community. Amidst evolving political landscapes and policy changes, the voices of educators, students, and families continue to advocate for equity, dignity, and justice within the educational system.