February 9, 2026
U-M recently sent an Important Reminder Regarding Immigration Enforcement and Campus Access to all students, faculty and staff.
The International Center also encourages our international community at U-M to be aware that participating in protest-related activities, as well as certain conduct or expression, may have potential immigration implications, particularly in view of increased scrutiny by immigration and consular authorities.
Here are some personal safety and other considerations to keep in mind and some additional resources:
- Protests/demonstrations can draw very large crowds, and we advise leaving the demonstration area should there be any indication that violence, property damage, or other risks to personal health or safety could occur.
- As a public university, the University of Michigan upholds the First Amendment of the US Constitution, which protects the public’s rights to speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition. Peaceful demonstrations and protests are protected under the First Amendment, and this applies to U-M's international community as well as to U.S. citizens. However, any resulting arrests, charges or convictions could impact your immigration status.
- If law enforcement officials are present, be sure to follow their instructions and leave the area if they direct you to do so.
- If you are not participating in or observing a protest or demonstration, we advise maintaining distance from the location where the protest or demonstration is occurring.
Resources:
- Safety Tips: Protests & Demonstrations from the Division of Public Safety and Security (DPSS)
- April 2025 IC announcement: Protests and Social Media Amid New U.S. Policies
- Free Speech on Campus: U-M guidelines pertaining to freedom of speech and artistic expression
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