CHICAGO — In response to the University of Illinois deciding not to become a sanctuary campus for undocumented students, State Senator Omar Aquino (D-Chicago) issued the following statement:

“Failing to protect undocumented students is regressive to our American values. The University of Illinois deciding against becoming a sanctuary campus for undocumented students sends a message that we do not support people who are working every day to invest in their future and the future of our country.

I am saddened for the students in Illinois who are living in fear and uncertainty, and I’m disappointed that our largest public university chose not to provide a safe space for them.

President-elect Trump’s rhetoric targets not only undocumented students, but a number of marginalized communities throughout our state and country. We must be united now more than ever, and I will continue to stand with those who feel unsafe going into the next four years.”