Defend Immigrant families and students in Woodburn Schools

To: Woodburn School Board Chair Noemi Legaspi, vice-chair Rosie Burkoff and all members, 

On behalf of students, community members and immigrant justice organizations, we demand that the Woodburn School Board take a stance to support the safety and welcoming of all students by passing Resolution No. 25-001, “Reaffirming Safe and Welcoming Schools for All.” 

We are extremely disappointed in the recent actions taken by the Woodburn School board, which resulted in the failed passing of the “Reaffirming Safe and Welcoming Schools for All,” on February 25th, 2025. This action contradicts the collective values of the Woodburn Community, it stands against Oregon Sanctuary Status and it creates a systemic risk towards our immigrant families.  In the 2023-2024 school year, 87% of Woodburn students and 42% of teachers identified as Latino or Hispanic.  A majority of Woodburn residents also come from immigrant families.

Immigrant families are currently facing increased toxic stress and fear as a result of federal immigration enforcement that have resulted in targeted and even mass immigration raids around the country.  While some board members have suggested that this is just a political issue, the threat of immigration raids and deportation brings real, material impacts to the students that the Woodburn School Board represents. Our public schools must do everything in their power to create accessible and safe learning environments for all students, regardless of their immigration status.  By reaffirming safe and welcoming schools for all, our school board commits to uplifting Woodburn School District's current policy that is intended to eliminate “barriers that may prevent students from attending school.” 

While symbolic to some people, passing Resolution No. 25-001, “Reaffirming Safe and Welcoming Schools for All”  is an important step to protect the students that you represent from discrimination, hate, and the increasing systemic violence.  We expect that you, as our elected school leaders, will take the right stance and pass this resolution.  

In solidarity,