immigrants | Campus Safe Words

TERM: immigrants
RISK LEVEL: high

Definition

“Immigrants” refers to individuals who have moved from one country to another, typically for reasons such as employment, education, family reunification, or safety. In higher education, the term appears in admissions materials, student support services, public policy coursework, and research addressing demographic change, economic mobility, or legal status.

Why It’s Risky

The term “immigrants” becomes politically sensitive when used in ways that imply institutional advocacy or policy preference, especially in states with active legislation on border security, sanctuary policies, or public benefits access. In conservative-led environments, references to immigrants in campus programming, hiring narratives, or outreach materials may raise concerns about ideological alignment, political messaging, or misapplication of public funds. Risk increases when the term is used interchangeably with “undocumented,” paired with equity framing, or tied to social justice narratives that suggest systemic exclusion or demand for policy reform.

Common Critiques

Critics argue that institutional use of “immigrants” often lacks clarity—failing to distinguish between legal immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and those without legal status. In conservative policy circles, this ambiguity is viewed as intentional, allowing institutions to frame immigration as a moral or humanitarian issue rather than a matter of law and public policy. Some lawmakers view programming for immigrants—especially if tax-funded—as a political statement or a form of advocacy. In legislative audits and public hearings, terms like “immigrant students” or “immigrant communities” have drawn scrutiny when used to justify preferential services, tuition waivers, or targeted hiring. Public universities may also be challenged for appearing to take a stance on immigration enforcement or federal policy.

Suggested Substitutes

International students or scholars (in admissions or research contexts)
Foreign-born individuals (in demographic studies or surveys)
First-generation Americans (if accurate and self-identified)
New arrivals or newcomers (in community engagement settings)
Individuals with immigration backgrounds (in program descriptions)

These substitutes retain accuracy while softening legal and political associations.

When It May Still Be Appropriate

“Immigrants” is appropriate in academic research, legal studies, and public policy coursework where the term is clearly defined and supported by evidence. It may also be used in federally required reporting or grant applications that include the term. In student-facing services or public communications, institutions should clarify legal status when relevant and avoid broad generalizations.

NOTES: Use the term “immigrants” only when legally accurate and necessary. Avoid implying institutional positions on immigration policy. Emphasize access, support, and academic success rather than political or moral framing. Align terminology with compliance standards and state expectations for neutrality in public communications.