Williams College Responds to Campus Safety Concerns
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — Williams College has taken proactive measures to inform its community members about unsubstantiated rumors regarding the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel on campus.
In a communitywide email sent on Wednesday afternoon, Jeff Palmer, the director of Campus Safety Services, stated that there is no evidence to support the claims of ICE activity. He provided guidance on what individuals should do if approached by immigration officials.
Palmer wrote, ‘If you are approached by immigration officers, please contact CSS immediately. You are not required to provide any information. You can inform ICE that you are not attempting to obstruct their actions but that you are not authorized to respond to their request and need to contact the appropriate campus office.’
Williams College boasts a diverse student population, with about 10 percent of its students being international, representing nearly 100 countries. The institution has also initiated programs to assist students who may be affected by conflicts or disasters.
This response comes on the heels of a similar incident in March, where a Tufts University graduate student was detained by ICE despite holding a valid student visa, bringing national attention to issues surrounding immigration enforcement on college campuses.
Addressing the impact of the recent rumors, Palmer stated, ‘Today’s rumors have challenged our collective sense of safety. If you are an international or foreign-born community member with concerns about your own status, or you are impacted in any way by recent events, please reach out to any of the services or resources below for help.’
He directed students to connect with the college’s International Student Services office, Residential Life staff, chaplains, or Student Health and Wellness Services for support. Staff were advised to contact human resources, while faculty members were instructed to reach out to the Dean of Faculty.
Palmer concluded by urging anyone with information regarding the rumors to contact Campus Safety Services for further assistance.
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