undocumented student resources
Client Overview:
Cal State East Bay supports a diverse student body with academically rich, culturally relevant learning experiences. These experiences equip students to apply their education to meaningful lifework and to be socially responsible contributors to society. Through its collegiate programs and activities, the university strives to meet the educational needs and to contribute to the vitality of the East Bay, the state, the nation, and global communities.
Role:
Sole Brand Designer, Photographer.
Duration:
4 Months
Problem/Challenge:
How might we be able to provide resources to undocumented individuals on campus while preserving their anonymity? Undocumented students on campus face legal troubles with insufficient resources and guidance. Moreover, the act of searching for services could draw unwarranted attention as they live with a daily threat of deportation.
Audience:
University students, faculty, alumni, and local region.
Team:
Dr. Melissa (Padilla) Cervantes, Dr. Diana Balgas, Belen Menjivar, Roxana Cruz, Rocio Camarena, Ana Rivera, Alejandro Bautista, Andrew Perez .
Our Approach:
Phase 1: Develop a repository of legal documents, services, and connects.
Phase 2: Train staff members (UndocuAlly) with tools to serve students.
Phase 3: Host a summit to kick off the launch of the initiative.
Photo Credit: Cal State East Bay
Phase 1: Gathering Assets
Our team divided our task in what we specialized in. Some began collecting resources with the help of legal counselors and from local services While others were engaging with staff and faculty to promote the initiative and to gather interest and support. I collaborated with a team of two, to develop what would be the logo for the UndocuAlly and all print and digital collateral. Below was the creative process in the first logo for UndocuAlly.
Phase 2: UndocuAlly
Where could a student even begin to ask for resources while having their peace of mind? Staff members who were trained to be an Undocually -- individuals who provide resources and support -- adorn their door with a butterfly plaque. The monarch butterfly has been colloquially symbolized to represent the migrant. Students can feel assured when they see this symbol outside of an offices, knowing that they could reach out for help and guidance. Similar to a safe-space sign outside fire stations, or how some churches provide sanctuary for those who seek it. Alternatively, pins were created so that students can proudly show they are available to lend support.
Phase 3: The Summit
Officially named the Undocumented Student Resources Initiative on May 2017, we launched a Summit that publicly recognizes the services that will be available on campus. At the event holding 300 attendees, we held a resource fair and seminars with immigration attorneys, contingency planners and a speech from the founder of “The Dreamers Roadmap” , Sarahi Espinoza Salamanca.
What makes us stand out from other state schools is that our resources are virtual only. We chose to make these services virtual so that anyone can quickly locate help while being anonymous. Notice: Due the delicacy of this situation, all photos are of faculty and staff to preserve the anonymity of attendees.
