We, the undersigned, submit this petition in opposition to the modification of temporary exemptions for nonimmigrant F-1 and M-1 students issued by The Student and Exchange Visitor Program under the Department of Homeland Security.
We urge the commonwealth attorney to do everything in his power to fight this ignorant and irresponsible rule and send a message of support to not only our international students but to our international community partners and friends around the world.
Why is this important?
This modification now requires in-person class attendance to remain in the United States and continue in academic programs. These modifications are illogical as universities are providing online instruction in response to the medical reality of airborne transmission of the COVID-19 virus. The Trump administration’s use of international students to force universities to provide in-person classes is cruel, reckless, and shortsighted. International students should not have to suffer the uncertainty of their educational future and residence within the U.S., due to a politically-motivated gambit centered upon economic goals that support President Trump’s re-election.
International students enrich the learning experiences of fellow students with their intellect, the sharing of personal experiences, and the richness of varied viewpoints. They live and work in our communities helping local economies thrive, and they often return to their countries using the skills and knowledge they have gained to improve the lives of those around them. Through the relationships and professional networks they build, international students are a force for global diplomacy
