The University of Oregon is ready to use its UO Alerts system to notify students and employees if federal immigration enforcement activity is confirmed on campus, in alignment with Oregon House Bill 4079.
To date, no incidents involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, commonly called ICE, have occurred on UO campuses.
How does the notification system work?
If enforcement activity is verified, notifications through the UO Alerts system will be sent to university email addresses and by text message to those who have opted in. Alerts will include the date, time and general location of confirmed activity.
Community members, including faculty, staff and students, are encouraged to enroll in UO Alerts text messaging through DuckWeb or by texting UOEUG, UOPDX or UOOIMB to 333111, depending on campus location.
A rapid response team — comprising representatives from the Office of the General Counsel, University of Oregon Police Department, and Safety and Risk Services — will confirm activity before any notification is issued. Routine federal visits unrelated to immigration enforcement will not trigger alerts. Verification is required by HB 4079, ensures accuracy and maintains trust in the emergency alert system.
What should I do if I witness or suspect ICE activity on campus?
Individuals who witness or suspect immigration enforcement activity on campus are asked to contact the Office of the General Counsel at 541-346-3082 and UOPD at 541-346-2919.
Guidance provided by the university outlines individual rights, which include:
- The right to remain silent and to consult an attorney before answering questions from immigration officials.
- Officers should not be granted access to nonpublic spaces, such as classrooms, residence halls or offices, without a judicial warrant signed by a federal judge.
- Requests for entry should be referred to the Office of the General Counsel to verify the warrant.
- International students are advised to carry their passport, Form I-20 or DS-2019, and a copy of their I-94 arrival record.
Where can I learn more?
Support resources are available through International Student and Scholar Services, which provides answers to frequently asked questions, the Office of the Dean of Students, the Office of the General Counsel and UOPD. Students can also find support through University Counseling Services.
An emergency policy enabling these notifications is now in effect. A full review through the Policy Advisory Council, including opportunities for public comment, is underway. Formal adoption is expected before the Sept. 30 deadline established by HB 4079.