Did you know that PSU is a sanctuary campus? What does it mean to be a sanctuary campus, and what protections does this status afford vulnerable faculty, staff, and students? PSU’s Women’s Resource Center has graciously put together a flyer with critical info about our sanctuary status and resources and info you can use in the event of an encounter with immigration officials.

English and Spanish versions of the flyer are below, followed by the full text of the English flyer.

PSU is a Sanctuary Campus, which means:

  • PSU Campus Public Safety does not enforce federal immigration law and ICE.

  • PSU will not consent to or facilitate immigration enforcement on campus.

  • PSU protects student confidentiality under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Oregon is a Sanctuary State, meaning all law enforcement, including PSU Campus Public Safety, cannot use resources to detain people based on immigration status.

Does PSU Share Immigration Information with the Government? PSU follows FERPA, which protects student privacy. We do not share student immigration information with federal authorities unless required by law. PSU will not release immigration information to the federal government unless mandated by a court order or law.

When Does PSU Collect Immigration Information?

  • Employment at PSU (required by federal law).

  • Financial aid (for eligibility, but not shared outside financial aid).

  • In-state tuition (Oregon Tuition Equity Law)

What If ICE Wants Information? 

Federal immigration officials need a subpoena to access PSU records. PSU employees must consult the Office of General Counsel before releasing any student information. Students have privacy protections under FERPA, and the University will defend those rights.

ICE on Campus? 

PSU cannot prevent ICE agents from entering public areas on campus. However, ICE cannot access private or restricted spaces (e.g., classrooms, housing) without a warrant signed by a judge.

Legal Assistance for Students: 

PSU’s Student Legal Services (SLS) offers free legal assistance, including immigration support from an immigration attorney. Go to pdx.edu/sls to request an appointment!

Local organizations providing free or low-cost immigration legal services include:

  • Pueblo Unido - pueblounidopdx.org

  • Immigration Counseling Service: 503-221-1689

  • Catholic Charities: 503-542-2855

  • Soar Immigration Legal Services: 503-384-2482

  • Oregon State Bar Lawyer Referral Service  800-452-7636) for a 30-min consultation ($35)

If you see ICE... call the Portland Immigrant Rights Coalition (PIRC) hotline at 1-888-622-1510

If you or someone you know was targeted in violation of Oregon’s Sancuary Laws - call 

1-844-924-STAY

PSU Office of general counsel 503-725-2656

Federal immigration enforcement officers have no greater access to PSU records than any member of the public unless they have a valid subpoena. If federal immigration enforcement officers present a warrant or court order, university employees should immediately contact the Office of General Counsel for assistance.