Of immigrant students
100 gather in Phoenix to address deportation fears
More than 100 teachers and community activists from around the nation crowded into a conference room Saturday to discuss protecting their students from the fears of deportation.
Suggestions ranged from educating students about their legal rights to teaching them how to become active advocates by voting.
The workshop, hosted by the American Federation of Teachers, was one of several included in the two-day National Council of La Raza Convention.
Areli Zarate, a Texas high-school teacher, came to the United States with her three brothers when she was 8.
“I always felt ashamed,” she said. “We couldn’t tell anyone we were undocumented.”
Zarate talked about what it was like to “come out of the shadow” and how she feels as though this country still doesn’t see her as a person at times.
“Because we know the stories and are so close to the students, it makes it easier for us to stand up and fight for the students.”
She shared her methods for protecting students in the classroom, which include creating a safe environment, and teaching students how to stay informed and become active advocates.
“A hug, pat on the back is not enough,” she said in regard to being an active advocate. “I hope I see you voting.”
The workshop began with a video inspired by true stories of immigrants, featuring Aloe Blacc singing “Wake Me Up.”
“Wake me up when it’s all over,” said Cesar Moreno Perez, spokesman for the teacher organization. “That is the nightmare that our families are living every day.”
Perez said teachers need to be able to provide the students with support and comfort.
Annette LoVoi is an executive director of Texas Appleseed, an organization of lawyers across the country devoted to issues such as deportation and immigration rights.
The Appleseed Foundation works to provide families with a plan, educate families on their assets and dig deeper into the psychological aspects of deportation.
In the workshop, LoVoi discussed helping teachers teach students to “know your rights” and how to react if U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers approach your family.
For example, she said, ICE is not permitted to go through personal property without a search warrant signed by a judge. In addition, it is not allowed to request documentation on students.
The workshop resonated with many, including Candelario Cervantez, Teach for America’s national senior managing director for Latinx Alliances.
“It’s been so inspiring to see so many Latinx and Hispanic leaders in different positions across different sectors really championing and fighting for equity for all kids and for the larger community,” he said.