Lisa Hernandez Rails Against Attacks on Public University Tuition Assistance for Undocumented Students

CICERO, Ill. – State Rep. Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez, D-Cicero, called for the Trump Administration and the Department of Justice to drop its suit against Illinois and fellow states, who offer in-state tuition and financial aid to undocumented students attending public universities and colleges. She released the following statement:

“The Trump Administration’s suit against Illinois officials and longstanding state law is yet another attack on immigrant communities, the right of every student to a quality, public education and the underpinnings of our state sovereignty.”

“Illinois has affirmed time and again that immigrants make our communities better, safer and more prosperous. They have built businesses, raised upstanding families and enriched the cultural fabric of our state in ways seen and unseen. Springfield is ensuring state law gives every opportunity to succeed while they pursue citizenship opportunities – one such opportunity being the right to apply for and earn a college degree.

“Allow me to be as clear as possible: Illinois cannot and will not stand by as our communities are made to be afraid and unsafe by incursions by the federal government. We will fight, using every tool at our disposal to protect families and ensure every Illinoisan can build a future in our state.”

“I have had the honor and privilege of serving a community with a rich immigrant history, and I have worked tirelessly in Springfield to ensure our state law honors the history of not just my community, but those in every corner of our state. Challenges may lie ahead, and my commitment stands firm.”