In JACKSONVILLE, Fla., these students are pressing UNF officials to consider transforming the university into a “sanctuary campus.” They express significant concerns over increasing immigration enforcement actions across the country, which have been intensified by recent incidents, such as the shootings in Minneapolis.

The student-led initiative arises as universities throughout Florida are aligning with a 2025 mandate from Governor Ron DeSantis. This directive requires state and local law enforcement entities to enhance their collaboration with ICE.

Approximately six months ago, UNF entered into a partnership with ICE. This arrangement permits university police officers, who have received specialized training, to engage in limited immigration enforcement activities under federal oversight.

This policy has sparked a division among the student body, reflecting a campus-wide debate on the issue.

Supporters of the sanctuary campus movement say limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities would help undocumented students learn without fear. Others argue the university is following state guidance and prioritizing public safety.

Jacksonville Students for Democratic Society, a student-led organization at UNF, held an anti-ICE rally on campus Wednesday calling for the university to end its agreement with ICE.

Stone Sevieux, a UNF student and member of the group, said the organization is pushing for policies that protect immigrant students.

“Obviously, with the escalation of ICE shooting two people in the middle of the street. We wanted to have it to protect our immigrant brothers and sisters. They’ve been tearing families apart consistently, so that’s why we want a sanctuary campus,” said Sevieux.

A sanctuary campus typically adopts policies limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, similar to sanctuary city policies. These measures can include restricting when officers are allowed on campus and limiting questions about immigration status.

In addition to ending the ICE agreement, the student group is calling on UNF to increase communication with students about immigration enforcement activity on campus and expand access to online learning options.

Sevieux also criticized the university for allowing Customs and Border Protection to recruit on campus.

“They invited Customs and Border Patrol to table at our university as the employer of the day, which is more than abhorrent in the current climate,” Sevieux said.

Quinn Gomez, another UNF student, said ICE should not have a presence at the university.

“ICE is not welcome here. They shouldn’t be welcome here. This is an educational environment,” Gomez said. “It doesn’t matter where someone’s from if they’re here to get a good education.”

Other students, however, said they support the university’s actions.

Beau Wibbing, a former Marine and current UNF student, said he feels safe on campus and believes immigration officers are doing their jobs.

“In my opinion, I think that a country should be loyal to its people first,” Wibbing said.

Wibbing also said he was not bothered by Customs and Border Protection recruiting on campus.

“I don’t see why we’re having a big problem with recruiting,” he said.

UNF officials told First Coast News they plan to release a statement Thursday morning.

First Coast News asked the Florida Board of Governors if Florida universities can legally become sanctuary campuses, and whether doing so could affect state funding. A spokesperson said they are looking into it.

Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.