UCLA’s UC Students Association Council Advocates for Undocumented Students with Assembly Bill 713
The Undergraduate Students Association Council (USAC) at UCLA has taken a significant step in supporting undocumented students by delivering a letter to the California State Legislature advocating for Assembly Bill 713. This bill seeks to prohibit the University of California from excluding undocumented students from on-campus employment opportunities.
Unanimous Council Support at UCLA
In a recent meeting held on Tuesday, USAC members unanimously endorsed the letter, which supports not only Assembly Bill 713 but also similar policies for the California State University and California Community Colleges. External Vice President Sherry Zhou personally handed over the letter to the California Assembly Committee on Higher Education later that same day.
Addressing Systemic Discrimination
The letter emphasizes that Assembly Bill 713 is crucial for tackling the systemic job discrimination faced by undocumented students in public higher education. “The inability to access on-campus employment directly impacts students’ ability to remain enrolled, meet basic needs, and complete their education. Institutional inaction has demonstrated that voluntary compliance is insufficient,” it states. Internal Vice President Tommy Contreras reiterated this sentiment, stating, “AB 713 isn’t just about competency; it’s about justice for students who are already contributing to our campus community.”
Previous Veto and Current Advocacy
The USAC letter also criticized Governor Gavin Newsom’s previous decision to veto Assembly Bill 2568 in 2024, which aimed to provide similar protections for undocumented students. Newsom’s veto was primarily based on concerns about potential criminal and civil liabilities for state employees. The governor indicated that legal clarifications were necessary before such a policy could move forward.
Legal Challenges and Advocacy Efforts by Opportunity for All
A coalition called Opportunity for All, comprised of students and faculty members from UCLA’s Center for Immigration Law and Policy, has actively pursued the rights of undocumented students through rallies, hunger strikes, and legal action. Despite the UC Board of Regents initially voting to explore the possibility of allowing undocumented students to take on-campus jobs in May 2023, they ultimately rejected the implementation plan in January 2024, leading to widespread criticism.
In a significant legal win for undocumented students, Jeffry Umaña Muñoz, a UCLA alumnus, successfully challenged the UC’s employment policies in court, with the California Supreme Court reaffirming the ruling in his favor.
Building Community Solidarity
USAC officers have expressed their commitment to supporting undocumented students, referencing their own mixed-status backgrounds. President Diego Bollo remarked, “I see a lot of the issues that undocumented students are facing. It’s reflective of our community.” The ongoing advocacy aims to ensure that the educational, social, and economic barriers faced by undocumented students are properly addressed.
Call to Action
Paige Zwerner, the chief of staff for Transfer Student Representative Hyerim Yoon, implored the California Assembly Committee on Higher Education to advance Assembly Bill 713 for a vote on the Assembly floor. “They should ensure the educational success of students across the UC,” she stated, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and community.
General Representative Jayha Buhs Jackson added that the letter underscores USAC’s mission to support vulnerable and marginalized students. Her office is currently working on how to implement Senate Bill 98, which mandates that California public schools inform students of immigration enforcement on campus.
The Future of Employment Opportunities for Undocumented Students
Contreras emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “The University of California is the third-largest employer in the state, yet it refuses to employ students who are eager, qualified, and ready to work. That’s not legality; that’s discrimination.” He reiterated USAC’s commitment to advocating for a more equitable educational environment.
As the debate continues within the California State Legislature, the advocacy for undocumented students at UCLA showcases a broader pursuit of justice and equity in education. In doing so, it prompts a necessary dialogue about the role of educational institutions in supporting all students, regardless of their immigration status.
