Since its inception in 2006, the “I Stand with Immigrants” movement has made significant strides in reshaping the conversation about immigration in the United States. With October 15 designated as the “Day of Action,” this campaign mobilizes to support immigrants, showcasing their essential contributions to communities across the nation. This year, the movement has reached over 200 campuses, including Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wisconsin, where local efforts aim to foster conversation and support for immigrant populations.
This year’s campaign takes on added significance with a focus on civic engagement, particularly in the context of the upcoming elections. Partnering with Voto Latino, Viterbo seeks to encourage students to engage in the electoral process. A 2020 census showed that while 80% of college students were registered to vote, only 60% participated.
To address this, Viterbo’s Division of DEI and the Sister Thea Bowman Center are collaborating with the League of Women Voters to educate the campus about voting. Voto Latino will assist students with registration and provide other voting information, aiming to boost voter turnout among the student population.
To amplify awareness and support, DEI is launching a social media campaign featuring images of university leadership, students, faulty, and staff proudly holding “I Stand with Immigrants” signs. This initiative aims to publicly demonstrate solidarity with the immigrant community.
Though other colleges may host in-person events, Viterbo has opted for a virtual approach this year, aligning with the evolving landscape of engagement and outreach. The movement can be found on Viterbo’s Instagram and Linked-In pages.
At the heart of the campaign lies a commitment to inclusivity, deeply intertwined with Viterbo’s Catholic Franciscan heritage. President Rick Trietley emphasizes that this initiative aligns with the university’s mission, which values diversity and the acceptance of all individuals. “The campaign is an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to being inclusive and diverse,” Trietley affirms.
For Viterbo, this isn’t just about support; it’s about recognition. By highlighting the vital role immigrants play in enriching campus culture and community life, the university aims to challenge stereotypes and promote a more welcoming environment for all students, particularly first-generation and underrepresented individuals.
President Trietley further supports the importance of accessible higher education for all, particularly for those who have been historically marginalized. Viterbo’s history of supporting rural students in Wisconsin serves as a foundation for its ongoing efforts toward inclusiveness. On a personal level, Trietley believes that every individual deserves the opportunity to learn and grow, regardless of their background.
“If just fits with my personal values that we want to be inclusive,” he reflects. “I think all human beings deserve the opportunity to be educated and improve their futures and to have successful careers and to be happy and healthy citizens.”
To bolster support for immigrant students, Viterbo has actively sought partnerships with local and national organizations. These collaborations aim to provide scholarships and resources, helping to create pathways for immigrant students seeking higher education. Additionally, the university has made substantial investments, including the hiring of a Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity (DEI) and enhancing English as a Second Language programs.
Campus programming on diversity, equity, and inclusion is designed not just to inform, but to also empower students, fostering a supportive community that recognizes the unique challenges faced by immigrant populations.
Personal narratives play a crucial role in this movement. Student Madeline Feldhake, intern at the DEI, shares her family’s immigration story, illustrating the profound impact that immigrants have on community development. She emphasizes the need to support these individuals, acknowledging how historical forces, such as colonization, have shaped migration patterns.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to work on this project,” Feldhake shares.
Viterbo’s involvement in the “I Stand with Immigrants” movement is a long-term commitment, not just a fleeting event. Initiated by student advocacy three years ago, the campaign reflects the university’s mission of inclusivity and hospitality, resonating with Pope Francis’s messages regarding the support of immigrants.
President Trietley is keenly aware of the need for continuous support as the population of immigrants grows. Plans are underway to enhance resources for Hispanic and Latinx students, ensuring Viterbo remains a welcoming space for all.
As the movement continues to evolve, Viterbo stands ready to deepen its commitment to supporting immigrants, embracing the rich diversity that enhances both the campus and local communities. The “I Stand with Immigrants” movement stands as a testament to the power of dialogue and engagement in the pursuit of diversity, equity, and inclusion for all.
