In last week’s table talk, I had a chance to talk to Esmeralda and other Rose Scholars about the sanctuary movement, what it means, and whether or not Cornell is a part of it. It was very eyeopening and I learned a lot. While I’m not new to activism around campus, or the reason behind trying to make Cornell a sanctuary campus, I am surprised that there is so called “sub text” behind the email that Cornell sent out. At the end of the day, it seems, Cornell is just an institution and they will say what they need to say to appease the student population (“we will support undocumented students”), but when push comes to shove, it’s questionable whether or not they will actually protect undocumented students. It also is questionable what their “support” means–financially, physically (as in provide shelter if necessary), or is it just “in spirit” (we will be there for you! But we won’t actually.)

After doing a brief internet search, I learned that some activists and students consider sanctuary campuses any campus that allows for open conversations surrounding identity without the fear of xenophobia. Other students consider sanctuary campuses as campuses that have resources for undocumented students. And still others believe that sanctuary campuses are campuses who will protect undocumented students at any cost.

I think moving forward we, as students, activists, and a campus–should more clearly define the word “sanctuary” and “sanctuary campuses.” In order to make an impact, I think it’s important to realize what it is exactly that we want. If we don’t, it is then very easy for the University to stand on the blurred lines of their “support.”