Colleges and universities in Florida have taken a dangerous step that changes their positionality from institutions that have “a duty to take reasonable measures (to) keep their students safe” to institutions that are directly putting their students at risk. In this troubling shift, at least 10 public universities in Florida have entered into agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), granting campus police the authority to enforce federal immigration laws. This move, directed by Governor Ron DeSantis, raises deep concerns about the safety and protections that college campuses can or are willing to provide their students, particularly for undocumented and international students. ​

By collaborating with ICE, universities are not only abdicating this responsibility but are also actively contributing to an environment of fear, uncertainty, and victimization.

Historically, the doctrine of in loco parentis positioned universities as guardians of their students’ well-being — the literal translation is “in place of parents.” By maintaining that credo, we would expect those acting as parents to protect and shelter their children; however, these Florida universities are not acting in their students’ best interests. By collaborating with ICE, universities are not only abdicating this responsibility but are also actively contributing to an environment of fear, uncertainty, and victimization. Undocumented students, who already face numerous challenges in accessing higher education, now find themselves at increased risk of detention and deportation. ​

The psychological toll on these students is profound. Reports indicate heightened anxiety, depression, and a pervasive sense of vulnerability among undocumented students on campuses where these ICE agreements exist. The fear of being targeted by campus police or ICE agents disrupts their academic pursuits and overall experience. ​

These harmful policies have broader implications for campus communities. They undermine the trust between students and university administration and erode the sense of community that is essential for a healthy campus climate.​ After all, focusing on your studies is challenging if you are living in constant fear.

These Florida universities are eschewing the role and responsibilities that universities have historically had with their students as guardians and are acting instead as extensions of federal immigration enforcement. Instead of prioritizing safety, well-being, and the educational success of their students, they are serving as government surveillance sites.

The actions of these Florida universities set a concerning precedent. As institutions of higher education, they must uphold values of belonging and support for all students, regardless of immigration status. Colleges and universities should be focused on implementing policies that protect undocumented students, providing access to legal resources, and fostering a campus that fosters learning and belonging, not fear.​ Failing to do so not only betrays the trust of their student body but also compromises the fundamental mission of higher education.​