Get unlimited local news and information that matters to you.

WWU says it will not assist immigration enforcement efforts amid federal pressure 

Decision reflects state law; feds would need legal documentation to enter restricted spaces

By Charlotte Alden General Assignment/Enterprise Reporter

Western Washington University will not aid or assist in immigration enforcement, officials said as the new federal administration cracks down on undocumented immigrants. 

In an updated policy publicized on Tuesday, Jan. 21, the day after President Donald Trump’s inauguration, Western officials said they do not “grant permission for any person engaged, or intending to engage, in immigration enforcement, including surveillance, to access university grounds or their immediate vicinity.”

The university cannot restrict immigration enforcement authorities from accessing public spaces on campus. But offices, classrooms and residence halls are restricted spaces in which immigration officials would need legal documentation to enter. 

The new policy reflects what’s required of universities by state law, Director of Communications Jonathan Higgins said, adding that the update is part of Western’s “commitment to keeping our community informed about changes federally as they emerge.” 

The moves came a day before the Justice Department issued a memo threatening to prosecute officials who resist the federal immigration crackdown, targeting “sanctuary” areas of the country. Gov. Bob Ferguson said state officials are preparing a response to the threat.

Higgins said university officials were not available for an interview about the potential federal pressure on immigration enforcement. 

[ Read more: WCSO won’t conduct immigration raids with ICE ]

Washington is mostly considered a sanctuary state. Most jails, including Whatcom and Skagit county jails, won’t notify federal immigration authorities when they release a noncitizen from jail or prison, nor will they hold prisoners long enough for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to take custody. The state’s Keep Washington Working Act restricts law enforcement in carrying out federal immigration laws. 

Western employees who see or who are contacted by immigration enforcement officers on campus should immediately alert the University Police Department and/or the Assistant Attorney General’s Office, according to the updated policy and procedure.


The UPD would then verify the credentials of enforcement officers, review documentation, determine if access will be granted and inform university leadership. A university representative would be present in the case of any enforcement activity, if possible. 

President Sabah Randhawa said in a statement on Western’s website that the university “embraces undocumented students as valued members of our community.” 

“We strive to serve undocumented students with resources and services which support their academic and co-curricular success,” he said. “We recognize the challenges and barriers they have overcome to pursue university education, and we look forward to celebrating their successes at Western.” 

Undocumented students or students from mixed-status families can seek support through the university’s Blue Resource Center

Charlotte Alden is CDN’s general assignment/enterprise reporter; reach her at charlottealden@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 123.

Latest stories

Long drives are part of life in east Whatcom County
Jan. 23, 2025 9:09 p.m.
Numbers collected by homeless service providers come by word of mouth. It’s not intended to be an accurate count.
Jan. 23, 2025 9:00 p.m.
Funding will allow for 11 homes in Anacortes and La Conner
Jan. 23, 2025 9:00 p.m.

Have a news tip?

Subscribe to our free newsletters