BURLINGAME – California Teachers Association President Eric Heins issued the following statement today praising the signing into law of CTA co-sponsored AB 699 by Assembly Member Patrick O’Donnell and SB 54 by Senator Kevin de León which protect California students from discrimination based on their immigration status and require schools to take affirmative steps to eliminate such discrimination, and prohibit state and local agencies from enforcing immigration law.

“California is proud to be a place for Dreamers and, as educators committed to the safety and success of our students, we support safe-haven schools and sanctuary cities that reflect and embrace the diversity of our students and their families, as well as the rich language and cultural assets they bring to our communities. Social justice for all begins with a quality, free public education.

“That’s why we’re so pleased Governor Brown signed into law two key pieces of legislation that ensure our schools, as well as our public facilities, will remain safe places free of threats of deportation and removal for students and families regardless of immigration status.

“We’re proud to have worked with Assembly Member O’Donnell to co-sponsor AB 699 which will restrict access by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers to California schools and requires school districts to prevent discrimination based on immigration status. On behalf of thousands of their students, educators all over the state contacted lawmakers to ensure its passage. We deeply appreciate the work and commitment that led to Governor Brown signing this important bill today.

“We are equally grateful that the governor signed into law SB 54, which makes all California schools and public facilities safe spaces for immigrants and prohibits state and local law enforcement from engaging in immigration enforcement.

“We will continue to fight for the rights and secure futures of all California students, including Dreamers.” 

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The 325,000-member California Teachers Association is affiliated with the 3 million-member National Education Association.