Safety, Inclusion & Belonging

The President's Task Force for Safety, Inclusion & Belonging: Chabot College is committed to fostering a strong, united community. We will continue to share important district-wide and college messages to reaffirm our collective strength and dedication to creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all. Together, we embrace the power of us.

Message from President Cooks: Federal Action Impacting Higher Education

Spring semester has been a mix of excitement and of uncertainty for our campus. Excitement in that we’ve welcomed students and enjoyed several campus events together, like Black History Month’s opening ceremony, the Lunar New Year celebration and Gladiator Days. However, we are also facing uneasiness and uncertainty due to Executive orders from the current White House administration. Our District is reviewing and responding to these changes with deliberation and care. On February 6, 2025, students and employees received an email from Chancellor Gerhard, President Foster and myself regarding the impact on federal funding and our district and college commitments.

Reaffirming Our Sanctuary Status   

• In 2017, the Chabot-Las Positas Community College District Board of Trustees adopted a joint resolution that originated through the Colleges shared governance Academic/Faculty, Classified, and Student Senates requesting that Chabot College be designated as a sanctuary campus.  

• At Chabot College—the Black Cultural Resource Center (BCRC), the Dream Center, El Centro and the Gladiator Resource Hub as well as other student support services are available to provide resources, legal guidance, and safe spaces for students impacted by these policies. Chabot College’s Counseling, Advocacy, Resources, Emotional Support (CARES) offer mental health services and appointments on a confidential basis.

• If approached by any federal agent on our campuses, employees are to immediately refer them to the President’s Office, Building 400, Room 408 (First Floor).  If you are not comfortable escorting officers, contact Campus Safety and Security for assistance (510) 723-6666.  Chabot College Campus Safety Officers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.   

Executive Orders and Our Institutional Commitment

In my role as Chabot College’s President and an educational leader with 30+ years of experience, I know the challenges faced by many disproportionately impacted students in our system and have consistently used my platform, and will continue to use my position, to advocate for equitable access to opportunities. Equity means that everyone gets what they need to be successful. Equity must include aspects of diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and anti-racism. At Chabot, we are committed to ensuring every student has the resources and support they need to thrive. We embrace DEIA, and we are dedicated to creating an environment where all students, especially those disproportionately impacted, have the opportunity to shine.    

Next Steps  

This is the time when the campus must pull together.  This is the time when we look out for each other and rise to the challenges we face as a community.  As announced at the January Town Hall, a President’s Task Force on Safety, Inclusion, and Belonging has convened.  The meetings are for all of those who are interested in planning and addressing the needs of our students, staff, and faculty in action of resistance to undermine our collective values.

Resources  

• To see communications sent to students and employees, visit the CLPCCD communication webpage.
• To access information on how to respond to on-campus immigration enforcement, see the Chabot College ICE on Campus pdf.
  
  

Reaffirming our Commitment to Safety and Inclusivity - CLPCCD Leadership (Chancellor and Presidents)

(1/23/2025) In light of recent concerns regarding potential federal immigration enforcement measures, we reaffirm our dedication to upholding the protections outlined in California's sanctuary jurisdiction laws, Senate Bill (SB) 54 (the California Values Act) and Assembly Bill (AB) 21. These laws safeguard individuals’ rights, foster a supportive campus environment, and prohibit the use of community college resources for federal immigration enforcement except as explicitly required by law. 

Key Protections and Guidelines:

• SB 54 (California Values Act): Campus safety and police are prohibited from assisting federal immigration enforcement activities or sharing personal information unless required by a judicial warrant.

• AB 21: Personal information will not be disclosed, and immigration officers seeking campus access must follow legal procedures. Emergency contacts will be notified if a community member is detained, and comprehensive support is available for students, faculty, and staff affected by immigration actions.

District Resources:

• Free Legal Services: The Higher Education Immigration Legal Services Program offers free immigration legal support to undocumented and mixed-status students, faculty, and staff. Visit FindYourAlly.com for more information.

• Mental Health Support: Resources are available to help manage feelings of anxiety or uncertainty. Visit the mental health services pages for Chabot College and Las Positas College.

As a district, we are unwavering in our commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of immigration status. If you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to your college leadership.