The Department of Justice (DOJ) has formally accused the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) of aiding undocumented migrants by providing resource referrals, financial aid, and academic support through its UndocuPack office. According to a report by FOX5 Vegas, a letter from the DOJ's Civil Rights Division alleges that the university has been steering undocumented students towards scholarships and career paths that don't require a Social Security Number.
In response to these accusations, UNR stated, "Late Friday afternoon, the University received correspondence from the U.S. Department of Justice. We are currently reviewing the letter and will respond appropriately through the proper legal and administrative channels." The University emphasized their dedication to "fostering an inclusive, supportive, and respectful campus environment for all of our students," as reported by FOX5 Vegas. Officials at UNR have committed to act in accordance with the U.S. Constitution and their statement reflects an intent to ensure equal educational opportunities for every student.
Further details provided by News3LV include a reference to the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, under which undocumented immigrants are prohibited from receiving most taxpayer-funded benefits. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon, citing the Act, noted concerns that UNR may be improperly using resources.
Janet Najera, director of UndocuPack and a doctoral student at UNR, has previously stated that the university's "goal is to grow the program and provide more support" for undocumented students. Since then, the DOJ has decided to refer the matter to the Department of Education for a full investigation. As of yesterday afternoon, all of the UndocuPack's online platforms appear to have been taken offline, as noted by News3LV. Meanwhile, the Department of Education has not publicly indicated whether they will launch an official investigation.
