Today Representative Anna V. Eskamani wrote a letter to all twelve Florida State Universities asking that efforts be made to protect international students. You can read her letter below.
July 14, 2020
Dear State University Presidents,
I write to you during this global pandemic to request that steps be taken to support Florida’s international students so that they may continue their academic career in the United States.
Last week the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced that international students would not be allowed to stay in the United States should they take only online classes, or, if their school closes for in-person instruction. This new ruling from the federal Student and Exchange Visitor Program affects M-1 and F-1 international student visas.
This anti-immigrant rule is dangerous both to our country and state. As reported by the American Immigration Council, 4.5 million immigrants live in Florida, comprising 21 percent of the overall population. As neighbors, business owners, taxpayers, workers, and students, immigrants are an integral part of Florida’s diverse and thriving communities and make extensive contributions that benefit all.
International students are 5.5% of the higher ed population in the U.S., totaling nearly 1.1 million in the 2018-2019 academic year. They not only enrich classroom discussions and help us better understand ourselves and our place in the world, but they also contribute to our nation’s research and economy. Often with little or no financial aid, international students tend to pour large amounts of money into U.S. higher education institutions, which helps to subsidize that education for Americans.
It is also clear to me that expecting all international students to continue their education outside of the United States online may be impossible. Some of our students originate from parts of the world with weak internet infrastructure and sanctions that prevent them from being able to visit certain websites and participate digitally. Time zone differences could also dramatically impact their ability to learn.
ICE’s new visa policy does not reflect the values of who we are as a state or country, and I humbly request that you put into place educational opportunities within your higher-ed institutions that would allow Florida’s international students to continue their studies in the United States safely.
Sincerely,
Representative Anna V. Eskamani
Florida House of Representatives, District 47