Full Breakdown
Student Protests Against ICE and CBP Recruiters at ASU and OSU Job Fairs
1/22/2026, 11:44:08 PM
Overview of the Protests
Recent job fairs at Arizona State University (ASU) and Ohio State University (OSU) have sparked significant student protests against the presence of recruiters from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). These protests reflect broader concerns about immigration enforcement and the implications for student safety and inclusion.
ASU's Job Fair Controversy
At ASU's Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, the Chicano/Latino Law Students Association (CLLSA) publicly condemned ICE's participation in the job fair, stating that the agency represents "family separation, detention, and fear." Maya Dominguez, the vice president of CLLSA, expressed concerns that inviting ICE to campus could create an exclusionary environment for students, particularly those who are undocumented or have mixed immigration status. Dominguez noted that the presence of ICE could deter students from attending the fair, as many feel unsafe in light of recent events involving immigration enforcement.
Despite the backlash, an ASU spokesperson stated that the university cannot prohibit federal agencies from participating in job fairs, citing legal obligations to avoid discrimination against such entities. The spokesperson emphasized that ASU aims to provide opportunities for all students, including those interested in careers with federal agencies.
OSU's Protest Against CBP
Similarly, at OSU, students protested the presence of CBP recruiters at the university's career fair. The Graduate Students Alliance (GSA) argued that inviting CBP contradicts the university's stated values of inclusion and respect. Gabriel Gorre, a member of GSA, highlighted the risks posed to international students and students of color, asserting that the presence of federal agents could create a hostile environment.
During the protest, approximately 60 students and community members gathered, leading to the arrest of three individuals for criminal trespassing after they disrupted the event. OSU officials stated that CBP has attended the career fair for several years and that students are free to engage with any employers present.
Diverging Perspectives
The protests at both universities have elicited a range of responses. Supporters of the protests argue that the presence of ICE and CBP undermines student safety and contradicts the universities' commitments to inclusivity. Conversely, some students, including members of OSU's College Republicans, defended the agencies' right to recruit, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue and engagement with diverse employers.
Nadia Qutob, an OSU student, described the invitation to CBP as an "injustice," while Keegan McCauley, chair of the College Republicans, asserted that all employers should have the opportunity to recruit on campus, regardless of their affiliation.
Conclusion and Implications
The protests at ASU and OSU highlight ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and its impact on academic environments. As students advocate for their rights and safety, the universities face the challenge of balancing legal obligations with the need to foster inclusive and supportive campus communities. The outcomes of these protests may influence future policies regarding the participation of federal agencies in university events.
