Trump Administration Targets Sanctuary Jurisdictions

🏙️ What Is a Sanctuary Jurisdiction?

A sanctuary jurisdiction is a city, county, or state in the United States that limits its cooperation with federal immigration authorities, especially ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement).

📰 What Happened

The Trump administration has intensified its crackdown on more than 500 sanctuary jurisdictions across the United States. These are cities, counties, or states that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement agencies, particularly Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

📋 DHS Publishes List of Sanctuary Jurisdictions

On May 29, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a public list on its website, naming over 500 jurisdictions it claims are not complying with federal immigration laws.

• Each jurisdiction will receive formal notification of their noncompliance.
• DHS says these jurisdictions may be violating federal criminal statutes by not assisting ICE in detaining and deporting immigrants.

  ️ Executive Order Signed by President Trump

President Trump signed an executive order on April 28, 2025, requiring DHS and the Attorney General to:

• Identify and publicly list states and localities obstructing immigration law.
• Review and potentially suspend federal grants or contracts with these jurisdictions.
• Take legal action against areas that remain in “defiance” of federal immigration policy.

🚨 DHS Justification and Goals

According to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, sanctuary policies:

• Endanger American citizens and law enforcement.
• Protect “violent criminal illegal aliens.”

The administration wants to force cooperation from local authorities in order to support President Trump’s mass deportation agenda.

🤝 Local Law Enforcement and ICE Cooperation

The administration is pushing for more 287(g) agreements, which allow local police to act as immigration officers:

• This dramatically expands ICE’s enforcement reach, especially since ICE has only around 6,000 officers nationwide.
• Under these agreements, local officers can arrest and detain immigrants on immigration grounds.

    ⚖️ Legal and Community Pushback

Many sanctuary jurisdictions defend their policies, arguing:

• Immigrants are more likely to report crimes if they don’t fear deportation.
• Immigration enforcement is a federal duty, not a local one.
• They prefer to use limited resources to focus on local crime, not federal immigration.

Some past attempts by the Trump administration to cut off funds to sanctuary cities have been blocked by courts.

🎓 Impact on Universities and International Students

Although the Trump administration’s policy mainly targets undocumented immigrants, it can also affect international students in several indirect but important ways.

⚠️ 1. Increased Immigration Scrutiny Nationwide

Even though international students are legally in the U.S., the broader push for strict immigration enforcement can lead to:

• More frequent document checks (visa, I-20, passport) by local law enforcement, especially in non-sanctuary areas.
• Heightened anxiety and confusion among students, especially those unfamiliar with local laws or their rights.
• Greater risk of accidental detention or questioning during broader immigration sweeps.

🏛️ 2. Potential Cuts to Federal Funding for Universities

If a university is located in a sanctuary jurisdiction, it may be affected by:

• Loss of federal grants or contracts, especially those linked to research, development, or public services.
• Reduced financial support for campus programs or departments that receive federal funds.

This could impact services provided to students, such as:

• Legal aid centers
• Mental health and counseling services
• Campus safety programs

👮 3. Local Police Cooperation with ICE

In areas with 287(g) agreements, local police may act as federal immigration officers:

• International students might be more likely to be questioned or asked for ID during routine encounters.
• Any minor legal issue, such as a traffic violation, could become more complicated if local police are checking immigration status.

🤝 4. Less Supportive Environment for Immigrants

Even though international students are not the primary targets:

• The political tone and enforcement pressure can create a less welcoming atmosphere.
• Students may feel fearful or isolated, especially those from countries with high deportation rates or negative media coverage.
• Some students might avoid reporting crimes or engaging with authorities, which can put their safety at risk.

🧾 5. Legal Resources May Be Overburdened

As more people seek help defending against immigration enforcement:

• Campus legal aid or immigrant rights centers may become overwhelmed.
• Students may face delays in getting help or advice on visa issues, CPT/OPT applications, or other immigration matters.

    ✅ What International Students Should Do

Here are a few tips for staying safe and informed:

• Always carry valid documents: Passport, visa, I-20/DS-2019, and student ID.
• Know your rights: You don’t have to let police or ICE enter your home without a warrant.
• Stay in legal status: Keep your enrollment full-time and report any changes to your school’s DSO.
• Use your university’s resources: International student offices and legal clinics are there to help.
• Stay informed: Follow official university updates and government announcements.