For several years, Oglethorpe University has joined colleges and universities nationwide to recognize “I Stand with Immigrants Day of Action.” On October 17, the OU community came together to celebrate the day and express their support for immigrants. 

The “I Stand with Immigrants” initiative is both a celebration and a rallying cry, honoring the monumental contributions immigrants have made in the United States and encouraging community members to take action in support of their immigrant peers.

Students, faculty and staff showed their solidarity by writing uplifting messages to immigrants and sending letters to Congress advocating for a pathway to citizenship. Additionally, the community was encouraged to check their voter registration before the upcoming election.

As part of the event, immigration attorney Erin Elliot was invited to campus to offer expert insight on immigration-related issues. She discussed employment options available to immigrants and addressed students’ questions afterward. 

The “I Am An Immigrant” Movement and the “I Stand With Immigrants” Initiative bring together artists, advocates, elected officials, organizations, and individuals to celebrate the diverse heritage of our nation’s social fabric. The movement encourages everyone to explore their individual heritage and recognize their distinct and shared experiences.

Oglethorpe embraced the initiative’s goals through a video shared by the Intercultural Center, featuring students, faculty, and staff reflecting on the importance of immigrants. 

“I stand with immigrants because their contributions to our communities make them a more dynamic and interesting place to live,” said Dr. Janelle Pham, Assistant Professor of Sociology.

“I think so often we put those kinds of contributions in the context of economic contributions and what they do for work. But it’s so much more than that to me in terms of their talents, cultures, and the experiences they bring. They make our country a better place.”