September 30, 2011

HACU Statement on Alabama Court Decision on HB 56

HACU files an Amici Brief in the HICA et al. v Robert Bentley, et al Case

The Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities (HACU) deplores the ruling by Alabama’s federal court earlier this week in HICA et al. v Robert Bentley et al.  Although the ruling blocked significant elements of the nation's most extreme anti-immigrant law, it also allowed  major provisions to go into effect, undermining the most fundamental American values of fairness and equality, and impacting thousands across the state, citizens, lawful immigrants, and undocumented immigrants alike.
 
Despite the fact that courts in other states have rebuked similar laws, Judge Lovelace Blackburn’s decision lets stand the state's ability to authorize police to demand "papers" showing citizenship or immigration status during traffic stops. The court also refused to block the chilling effect the law will have on access to public schools by requiring school officials to verify the immigration status of children and their parents.

On a positive note, the court did temporarily stop the state from enforcing the provision that barred some students from enrolling in or attending public universities in Alabama.  The court will makes its final ruling on the higher education provision at a later date.

“The Alabama Court ruling is a setback for Hispanics in the state and across the nation. Plyler v. Doe clearly affirms all students’ right to access an education and this Court decision flies in the face of allowing students their basic right to an education,” said Dr. Antonio R. Flores, President and CEO of HACU.  "Although we are grateful for the court’s ruling on the parts related to higher education, Hispanic students will still face considerable racial profiling due to the provisions of law that were allowed to stand. Americans deserve better than to face this sort of discrimination. While we are deeply saddened by the Court decision, we remain positive that ultimately those who advocate for equality will prevail.  We call upon the Obama Administration and Congress to pass Comprehensive Immigration Reform or take further action to oppose legislation such as Alabama’s.” 

HACU has been a staunch advocate of Federal and State DREAM Acts and of Comprehensive Immigration Reform, and will continue to advocate for the rights of students everywhere to realize their dreams of a higher education.