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Posted on Wed, Apr 17, 2013 : 7:40 p.m.

University of Michigan protest: Arrests made at tuition equality rally

By Kellie Woodhouse

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Eight protesters were arrested for blocking traffic at the intersection of State Street and South University Avenue in Ann Arbor while rallying for tuition equality Wednesday night.

The protesters demanded that the University of Michigan begin offering in-state tuition rates for unauthorized immigrants that attended high school in Michigan.

About 50 people attended the protest, causing traffic to pile up during the course of the event, which began at 6 p.m. At least four officers told the group —amidst a cacophony of car horns— they had to disperse or risk arrest, but eight protesters remained in the intersection and were arrested by the U-M Police Department.

Seven of the people arrested were students and the remaining arrest was an U-M alumnus.

"It's an issue of fundamental equity, equality and fairness," Antonio Ramirez, a protester and U-M graduate student studying history, said of tuition equality.

U-M police spokeswoman Diane Brown said the majority of those arrested will be processed and released Wednesday night. The arrests were for misdemeanors of disorderly conduct and not complying with police orders for blocking traffic.

"It was an intentional demonstration of civil disobedience," she said.

Some protesters moved out of the way at the first request of police. After being "given another opportunity to comply, eight chose to be arrested," Brown said.

The group also marched outside President Mary Sue Coleman's house, on South University, chanting "education not segregation" and holding signs that read "tuition equally now!"

"It's an amazing sacrifice on their part," U-M freshman Trevor Rolan, said of the protesters who were arrested. "They are [over] 18 and they're willing to have this on their permanent record... It is really exciting that this happened."

Students, supporters and unauthorized Michiganders have been petitioning U-M's elected governing body for about two years, seeking in-state tuition rates for unauthorized youth that grew up in Michigan. Right now unauthorized immigrants must pay out-of-state tuition, regardless of whether they attended high school in Michigan.

The difference in price is more than $26,000. Unauthorized immigrants don't qualify for federal student loans.

101713_tuition_equality_CS-1-2.jpg

University of Michigan and Ann Arbor police arrest protesters for blocking the intersection of South State Street and South University Avenue in Ann Arbor.

Courtney Sacco I AnnArbor.com

"It doesn't seem right, having grown up here and not being able to attend my state university," said protester Javier Contreras, a Skyline High School senior who says he has lived in Ann Arbor since he was 4 years old. Earlier this month he received his acceptance letter to U-M and, although he says he was "freaking out" from excitement, unless policies change he won't attend.

"It was very bittersweet," he said. "Yes, I got accepted, but I can't go. I can't afford it."

Supporters of tuition equality have rallied on the Diag, staged a sit-in at a Board of Regents meeting and testified before regents, saying current policies put U-M out of financial reach for most unauthorized immigrants that grew up in Michigan.

Throughout the fall and winter a U-M task force compiled a report on tuition equality, benchmarking U-M to other schools and exploring the logistics and legality of such a policy. A group of administrators, including the provost and president, are now reviewing that report and crafting recommendations for the Board of Regents, which have the final say on the matter.

U-M spokesperson Rick Fitzgerald says he does not expect administrators to present recommendations to regents tomorrow at the board's public meeting.

Macomb Community College sophomore Miriam Cuevas said she was accepted to U-M two years ago but did not attend because, as an unauthorized immigrant, it was too expensive. She thanked supporters who protested alongside her.

"Hopefully soon and not too long from now the University of Michigan will also support us," she said.

U-M regent Mark Bernstein, who was elected in November, tweeted Wednesday night that U-M has a "long tradition of student activism" and said he is "proud of this engagement."

Kellie Woodhouse covers higher education for AnnArbor.com. Reach her at kelliewoodhouse@annarbor.com or 734-623-4602 and follow her on twitter.

Comments

Aah

Fri, Apr 19, 2013 : 3:41 p.m.

U of M should be ashamed of it's admissions practices. Really?

tooldtocare

Fri, Apr 19, 2013 : 12:46 p.m.

Hmm..let's see....Imagine your parents leave a 3rd world country because of corruption, violence and hope for a better life and cross the border into the USA with nothing more than their clothes on their backs. Work hard and juggle 2, 3, 4 minimum wage jobs and feel safe enough to start a family. How are the children of undocumented workers to blame for their status? That is why we need immigration reform to address these issues....by the way undocumented workers pay into social security knowing they will never be able to use it, and the government relies on these "un-claimed" dollars to keep S.S. solvent.

Skyjockey43

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 8:50 p.m.

So let me get this right. If I commit a crime, I lose a Constitutionally guaranteed right as a citizen of the U.S. i.e. the 2nd ammendment right to keep and bear arms. But if these people commit a crime i.e. entering and/or remaining in this country illegally, then not only should they be afforded another of this same Constitution's rights, i.e. the 1st ammenment right to freedom of speech and assembly, but they should also be afforded discount tuition as well? I must've fallen asleep and woke up in Bizarro World some time ago.

Tex Treeder

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 7:31 p.m.

I've been thinking about this all day, and I realized, "Why are we even considering this? Illegal aliens? In-state tuition? This is crazy." In-state tuition should be for legal residents of the state of Michigan. I don't think that that is too complicated to understand. I might consider out-of-state rates for illegal aliens, but that assumes illegal aliens should even be admitted to a state university in the first place.

Howard Beale

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 6:29 p.m.

It is really quite simple......why even have laws if we are not going to enforce them?

JGA2trueblue

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5:48 p.m.

U-M regent Mark Bernstein, who was elected in November, tweeted Wednesday night that U-M has a "long tradition of student activism" and said he is "proud of this engagement." The PROUD thoughts of our newly appointed "privileged, silver-spoon-in-mouth" liberal democrat regent. Was he demonstrating with them? No. He tweeted for fame. Student activism isn't even the issue! It is about THE LAW and illegal immigration! And he is a lawyer. Yep...enough said.

Dexterdriver

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5:13 p.m.

This "newspaper" has a weird censorship policy. I'll try again.......Yes, deport the male with the loudspeaker. How dare these people and their misguided advocates try to boss Americans around and demand their "rights". They don't have rights here......they are not here legally.....they are illegal aliens and should not be here, let alone given admission, or, amazingly, in-state tuition. They need to start packing......their bags.

What?

Sat, Apr 20, 2013 : 1:13 a.m.

You want to deport a high school student, who has lived here for over a decade, to a place he probably doesn't remember, for something he didn't do? That is terrible.

Davidian

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:57 p.m.

I think we need to ratchet up the message because I am completely sick and tired of illegal immigrants suppressing wages, sending health care through the roof, and occupying our prisons. Our government is breaking the law and our constitution - and will do nothing to stem the tide. Time for citizens to stand up and make their voices heard. Here's my first words: Get out...or else.

Peter

Sat, Apr 20, 2013 : 12:19 a.m.

Or else what? Are you threatening people with violence?

Greg

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:31 p.m.

As mentioned " I'm wondering how they even got admitted to UM if they are illegal immigrants? What does this say to the qualified Michigan LEGAL citizens who were denied admission?" What it says is that the University's stated position of Diversity At Any Cost is far more important than any rules or serving the citizens of this state.

Tim Hornton

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:42 p.m.

Kellie gave these students what they wanted. To be heard and get attention for their cause by disobeying the law and getting arrested. The ann arbor tea party lol. We will not pay higher taxes on tea and we will not pay higher tuition at an overpriced school.

C. Montgomery Burns

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:09 p.m.

"Hello, Mommie and Daddy? In addition to sending me money for tuition, room and board, can you throw a little extra money this month for bail? Oh, and by the way, I maxed out my Visa card buying my friends shots at Applebee's....can you pay that bill too?. Why do I need bail money....oh I was protesting because I think illegal immigrants should get a break on their tuition.....CLICK....hello?, Mommie....Daddy?"

What?

Sat, Apr 20, 2013 : 1:15 a.m.

How would you know it's accurate? Don't make assumptions.

you can't handle the truth

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5:03 p.m.

Probably quite accurate account of a typical conversation except for the hanging up part.

What?

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5:02 p.m.

That seems a little overly-caustic.

JRW

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:06 p.m.

Gee, I'd like to go to England and live there illegally and go to college, Oxford or Cambridge, and get free tuition. How would that work? Why should the UM even admit illegals? This is illegal right from the start. If the illegal applicants are faking information on their applications, perhaps using fake SS numbers, then they need to be prosecuted, along with the UM admissions personnel.

What?

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5 p.m.

You would like to prosecute someone who was brought into the country as a child (which he had no control over) for wanting a good education? And his tuition will not be free. No one said anything about faking information. Don't make assumptions.

JRW

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:58 p.m.

Why are unauthorized (illegal) immigrants making any demands at all at the UM? Illegal means illegal. I'm wondering how they even got admitted to UM if they are illegal immigrants? What does this say to the qualified Michigan LEGAL citizens who were denied admission?

you can't handle the truth

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:57 p.m.

The illegal aliens should be deported, not given tuition breaks. If these protesters are truly are leaders of tomorrow, then our country really is going down the drain.

ccb9

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:45 p.m.

It's not just illegal immigrants that don't get tuition equality. It's also legal immigrants that are not permanent residents or citizens. You could have been living legally on a visa in the state of michigan for years, going to school, working, paying taxes, and you'd still have to pay international tuition.

Andrew

Fri, Apr 19, 2013 : 12:47 a.m.

@Nicholas, legal immigrants also have to follow the law. And permanent residency does not equate to citizenship. The point is some legal immigrants feel it is unfair that they have to pay OOS tuition even after maybe 10 years of paying income taxes to both the federal government and the state, while awaiting approval for permanent residency.

towncryer

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 8:39 p.m.

And spouses of medical residents also have to pay out of state tuition despite living here, so as your compadre said earlier--"Deal".

Nicholas Urfe

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 7:58 p.m.

ccb9, you also cannote vote without citizenship. Being a citizen has certain benefits, as well as obligations. One of the obligations is obeying the law.

ccb9

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:22 p.m.

I didn't say illegal, I said LEGAL, you sure can live in the state of MI or any other state for years, legally with a visa, have a SSN, work, pay taxes, and go to school. Everybody is upset about this because illegal immigrants don't pay taxes, I'm just pointing out that legal immigrants that do pay taxes get international tuition as well.

JRW

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:59 p.m.

Illegal immigrants can't live in the State of MI, or any other state, on a visa for years. That's illegal.

whojix

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:26 p.m.

Oh no, my unauthorized comment was removed! What a silly game of semantics.

Nicholas Urfe

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:59 p.m.

The publicly funded university has an Honor code. It makes no sense that those who would violate the law should receive extra taxpayer subsidies, or for that matter even be allowed to attend. I cannot illegally enter another country to reside or work. To do so would make me a criminal. Why should we make an subsidize those who do?

What?

Sat, Apr 20, 2013 : 1:18 a.m.

Have you lived in California for over a decade? He's not asking for your support, just the same opportunities that the children of legal immigrants have. He hasn't committed a crime, so why should he be penalized?

Nicholas Urfe

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 7:56 p.m.

Is that the "my partents snuck in, and now you must support me" argument? It wasn't my fault I don't have legal residency in California. But that means I must pay out of state tuition to go to a state school there.

What?

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:56 p.m.

It wasn't Javier Contreres's fault that his parents illegally brought him in the country as a child.

jerrydog

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:36 p.m.

Last I checked there are a lot of people that get accepted to college that cannot afford to go, so what? Additionally, why do we citizens continue to get badgered by illegal aliens on what we must give them? Or what they are entitled to? He should be yelling at his parents not me. Illegal is illegal, anyway you sugarcoat it. Unauthorized indeed… give me a break. Next time I get pulled over what will the cop say to me? You were not authorized to go 75mph? I will say wait but that isn't fair you get too.

upnorth45

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:28 p.m.

By the way, do we have the names of those kid's parents who are illegal so we can deport them?

upnorth45

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:25 p.m.

Kids of illegal immigrants break the law, cause damage by causing traffic problems, and cost tax payers money. Sigh! Let the parents of these kids pay for damages.

What?

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:54 p.m.

Who said the protestors who were arrested were children of illegal immigrants? People have a right to protest against something that doesn't directly affect them.

Davidian

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:33 p.m.

I thought illegal immigrants only wanted to do the jobs that regular Americans don't want...but now they want the best possible education, in front of US citizens and Michigan residents? I don't think so. BTW - I filed a formal complain with the INS because they are criminal aliens and should be deported. I doubt they'll do anything because they were neutered by our administration. But I did my part. And so should everyone else.

ccb9

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:06 p.m.

How do you know that the people that were protesting are illegal? Just because they're fighting for undocumented immigrants doesn't mean they are here illegally as well.

Chase Ingersoll

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:29 p.m.

Not helping themselves or their cause. Who are the adults that are counseling these young people?

JRW

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:01 p.m.

I bet that administrators at UM are counseling them.......shame on them.

anti-thug

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:13 p.m.

this BS ...arrest for blocking traffic?

Usual Suspect

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:03 p.m.

Silly police, arresting people for doing illegal things.

Tim Hornton

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 11:50 a.m.

These young scholars are going to change the world!

trespass

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 11:43 a.m.

Regardless of whether or not I agree with the underlying issue, it is good to see students getting involved with activism on issues they believe in. It is very much in keeping with student protests against the Vietnam War in the 1960's, the protests to get the Regents to approve a student bookstore 1970, the BAM strike for more black enrollment 1970 and against having an armed university police force 1992. Unfortunately, the University administratin has become much less tolerant of student protests in the last 20 years and particularly under President Coleman. Look for example at the SOLE protests against sweatshop labor in 2007. There were protests at campuses all around the country that day but only three universities arrested any protesters and only President Coleman decided to press charges and prosecute the protesters. County Commissioner, Rabhi Yousef, along with the others was given a lifelong trespass warning that kept him out of the Fleming building and preventing him from speaking at any Regents meetings. http://www.annarbor.com/news/washtenaw-county-commissioner-banned-from-u-m-presidents-office-bears-no-grudge-wants-to-meet---else/ President Coleman has a choice whether or not to press charges against these students. I hope that AA.com follows up on these student protesters to see if the University really respects student activism or punishes them as criminals.

M-Wolverine

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:17 p.m.

President Coleman should have no say in whether they're charged or not. They were blocking a public street, not trespassing on campus. The University doesn't own the streets...yet. It's up to the city.

jerrydog

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:38 p.m.

was this person a student? i thought is said he could not afford to go? did he bump a American Citizen from a slot?

Bcar

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 11:39 a.m.

Why wouldnt INS be called if the police had an *illegal* after an arrest? ...should have been called. So they want an advantage to get in, and now they want an advantage in terms of how much they pay...awesome.

Usual Suspect

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:02 p.m.

Because Ann Arbor is a Sanctuary City.

grye

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 11:26 a.m.

Just as businesses should verify citizenship or documented immigrant status, universities and public schools should do the same.

JRW

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:03 p.m.

I agree with grye. Why should the taxpayers of Michigan be paying for illegal immigrants to attend UM with instate tuition. How did illegal immigrants get admitted in the first place? Isn't UM checking visa status on applicants? This is an outrage from the start.

ccb9

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:50 p.m.

Why shouldn't everyone have the right to educate themselves? If your parents take you to another country illegally how is that your fault? Isn't it better that they are educating themsleves so they can be productive members of society?

Basic Bob

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 9:40 a.m.

How do undocumented immigrants manage to pay income taxes to the state on their unreported income?

Craig Lounsbury

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 11:52 a.m.

many of them get paychecks. In my direct experience the gus I worked with would declare the maximum allowable exemptions on their w-4 to minimize what was sent in each week to the Government. The ones i knew didn't file tax returns because that was thought to increase the chance of getting caught. But taxes did come out of their checks.

Jay Thomas

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:58 a.m.

This is like living in some upside down bizarro world. You don't have the right to be here but you should be able to jump in line in front of an American to gain a precious admission slot at one of our universities. If our leaders had not been indoctrinated into political correctness they would deport these people the minute they started shouting from that bullhorn. Even more amazing is that they don't even check for legal status before admission (forget about what it costs). On the other hand maybe I could force my way into Japan and demand that they teach me how to forge Katanas. I've always been fond of those. It's all so confusing.

What?

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:49 p.m.

Javier Contreres got into the UofM because of his grades and talents, just like everyone else. He did not demand to be accepted, or "jump in line in front of an American". Your analogy is not relevant.

marymoo89

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:06 a.m.

Doesn't LS&A offer a protesting major or something so these kids would know how to effectively make a point...

Tex Treeder

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:56 a.m.

To be against illegal immigration does not make one automatically racist or anti-Mexican or whatever. It simply means that one is against illegal immigration. To automatically shout "Racist!" as a response to someone who opposes illegal immigration is disingenuous at best. You'll notice that I have not argued either in favor or against any immigration policies. However, I expect that I will be branded a racist simply for pointing out a logical inconsistency. This is a symptom of our times, the unwillingness to listen to what is being said and to label and pillory those with opposing viewpoints.

Stefan Hanosh

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5:01 a.m.

Amen. It's not just with immigration, it's also with homosexuality and other controversial social issues. I have an article on my Facebook page that deals with this labeling issue.

Concerned Neighbor

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:39 a.m.

Kids kids kids....why not demand free education for all, and don't discriminate against poor and un educated while you are at it.

Poorman

Fri, Apr 19, 2013 : 12:33 a.m.

These are great ideas, but who would pay for this? "Socialists are happy until they run out of other people's money" Margaret Thatcher

Anders

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:24 a.m.

I didn't look at the comments. I know what they would be like.

EyeHeartA2

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:19 a.m.

@gonavy; The issue isn't if you are a Native American or not, but whether you are in the country legally or not. You know that, but nice deflection. BTW, if one of these illegal immigrants was to throw down an anchor kid, the kid could get the in state tuition. Even though they are not part Native American. See how that works? It's really not that though, but you knew that all along anyway, right?

stonecutter1

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:58 a.m.

Couldn't have said it better EyeHeart!

The Great Gazoo

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:18 a.m.

I dont care about their sob story... I have problems also and i am tired of hearing how they deserve the same rights as people who have come to this country via the legal route and getting pushed to the side. I my money funding this deadbeats and I want it to STOP.... Arrest them all and ship them back until they enter this country correctly.

What?

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:42 p.m.

Even the children who had no control of how they entered the country? You think they should be arrested and sent back to a place they barely know, just because of what their parents did? Everyone has problems. Deal.

The Great Gazoo

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:15 a.m.

No Tax dollars at all for Illegals at all... Tax dollars for Americans only, it time for our country to support its citizens and stop allowing this to happen. If they are illegals they should be kick out of all publicly funded schools, especially the UofM. This BS is why our country is slipping in the international world and it needs to end now.

KateT

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:09 a.m.

People keep asking me if we get a discount for our teens' tuition because my children's Dad is on U of M staff. Unlike many other universities, we don't. Just like in health care where the low level workers often cannot afford the services they provide, staff members struggle to send their kids to U of M, where they themselves have toiled for decades. We saved for 10 years to buy them each 1 year of U of M tuition, room and board not included. 30 more years and they'll be good to go! Throw in subsidizing illegals who have not paid taxes, and make it super- unaffordable. Great!

stonecutter1

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:56 a.m.

Don't disparage the illegals. Be quiet and pay more!

jjjameson

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:52 a.m.

Wait, so people who are here illegally felt the need to risk arrest by protesting in the middle of the street? Perhaps they could use the education after all.

What?

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:40 p.m.

Just because the protestors feel strongly, doesn't mean they're illegal immigrants. No one said that the people arrested were in the country illegally.

Jay Thomas

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5:03 a.m.

I think it's the politicians who need the education. The people breaking the law seem to be getting away with it.

Allencic

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:38 a.m.

I think Ann Arbor needs to be invaded by Martians (real Martians) so these pampered little snots can have something really worth worrying about. Way too much time on their hands. Maybe their professors need to give them some really, really long homework assignments.

Silly Sally

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 11:08 a.m.

Actually, they have time for a bus to Washington DC to protest more for more illegal immigration.

Macabre Sunset

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:34 a.m.

It sounds like these people are following the excellent examples of their parents, who entered the country illegally. They've decided the rules don't apply to them, either, and it's perfectly fine to take away rights of others by blocking traffic. I hope the University leaders don't give in to this emotional blackmail.

What?

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:38 p.m.

Who said the people blocking traffic were immigrants? They were just protestors.

Bcar

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 11:36 a.m.

I love it when we agree ;)

Jay Thomas

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5:04 a.m.

I'm only surprised the administration isn't out there passing out lemonade. Except that might constitute real work...

teeters

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:06 a.m.

The point of in state tuition, is in effect, to say thank you for all of the tax dollars you (or your parents) paid while living in MI that went to the University. Out-of-state students (who never paid a dime in MI taxes) don't get a break. The last time I checked, you need a SSN to file taxes and you need to be a citizen or documented immigrant to get one.

TheDiagSquirrel

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:52 a.m.

Sounds like the protesters had an "unauthorized" impedance of traffic, and the police arrested them for "unauthorized" conduct.

Allencic

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:48 a.m.

As soon as I saw the headline my first thought was, "Typical Ann Arbor, typical U of M students, typical imbeciles!" Will this politically correct nonsense ever die?

Jay Thomas

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5:28 a.m.

And typical U o f M regents. They think it's just fine if someone not playing by the rules gets to cut in line in front of an American. We need legislation dealing with this kind of thing because you cannot count on anyone from the U do the common sense thing.

stonecutter1

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:49 a.m.

Not in the People's Republic of Ann Arbor, no.

RUKiddingMe

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:48 a.m.

Kids are getting dumber every generation. I can't even imagine how depressing it must be to try to argue with someone who would go to a protest for this. Just absolutely clueless and dumb. I guess there's not enough going on for them to have a cause, so they'll jump on ANYTHING.

eagleman

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:50 a.m.

Once again, GoNavy, Native Americans are irrelevant to this discussion as we are talking about the legal construct called the United States of American. And if you think about it if the Native Americans had taken been anti-immigant their culture would not have been brought to the brink of extinction. Xenophobia would have been in their best interest.

Kellie Woodhouse

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:45 a.m.

I've added a two-minute video of the protest and related arrests, you can view it here: http://www.annarbor.com/news/video-university-of-michigan-students-alum-arrested-for-blocking-traffic-during-tuition-equality-pro/

bbb

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:38 a.m.

I'm still paying student loans due to not being able to afford college. I was going to suggest taking out student loans. But wait, that's right, if you're actively breaking the law by living here as an illegal alien it's hard to take out loans without committing additional white collar crimes.

a2citizen

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:37 a.m.

Just deport them and call it even.

Homeland Conspiracy

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:36 a.m.

Stop this PC speak (unauthorized immigrants) & call it for what they are "criminals"

Usual Suspect

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5:46 p.m.

They didn't break the law by coming here because they were brought here. But they are breaking the law by staying here.

Robert E.

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5:36 p.m.

Well put Craig...excellent way to illustrate the point...

Craig Lounsbury

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5:19 p.m.

then we are in agreement that Homeland Conspiracy is less than accurate to imply they are all criminals.

Usual Suspect

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:56 p.m.

Two. And the children don't get to keep the money their parents stole from the bank.

Craig Lounsbury

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:17 p.m.

Mr. and Mrs. Jones decide to rob a bank. Mrs Jones drives the getaway car while Mr. Jones goes in to get the cash. They can't find a baby sitter so they load up their 4 year old and their 9 month old and take them along. Question: How many bank robbers were there in the Jones family?

Jay Thomas

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5:12 a.m.

Robert, it doesn't matter whether they where brought here as a child or flew in the other day; they are demanding the same thing for everyone "unauthorized" that is here. Citizens of other countries will get the discounted rate while Americans from nearby states like Ohio WILL PAY THROUGH THE NOSE.

Robert E.

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:36 a.m.

Hah! Again with the "political correctness"! The last refuge of a conservative when they have no real argument of their own...us liberals call it "human decency"...are you saying a child that was brought here without any say of their own is a criminal? I'll call you out on what that is, Conspiracy-minded person, but I wont say it here because it wouldnt be the mature thing to do...

hail2thevict0r

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:28 a.m.

I just don't get the thought process here, they don't pay the same in-state taxes because they are, in fact, undocumented citizens. Therefore, they DON'T deserve in-state tuition. It's literally that simple. If they want to start paying taxes, sure, go ahead and give them in-state tuition.

Davidian

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:51 p.m.

No assumptions - go to any garage, landscaping company, etc...and witness first hand how they pay their (illegal) employees. Cash-ola.

Charley Sullivan

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:33 p.m.

Davidian: That's not my understanding. I think Craig's description is more accurate, from what I've heard. Are you sure you're not making assumptions?

Davidian

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:27 p.m.

How naive. Most illegals are paid under the table. Paying taxes is a paper trail to the IRS for illegal employment. Hello!!!

Craig Lounsbury

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 11:48 a.m.

I worked for a small company that had 4 illegal/undocumented aliens working for us. In fairness my boss didn't know they were illegal when he hired them and released them when he found out. But to my point one thing they all did was to declare the maximum allowable deductions on their W-4 . The idea was they would not file a tax return because that would increase the chance they would get caught. So they did pay some taxes but maybe not all they should have. I will add that all 4 of those guys were hard workers, good men, and I was sorry to see them leave our employment.

Charley Sullivan

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:29 a.m.

hail: most undocumented workers do in fact pay taxes, they are taken out of their paychecks just like they are for all of us in many cases.

leaguebus

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:25 a.m.

This policy makes no sense. Time to use the established standards of in/out state for these kids.

Davidian

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:26 p.m.

How about deportation?

1bit

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:23 a.m.

@leaguebus: They are using the established standards.

Usual Suspect

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:32 a.m.

More like out country.

Poorman

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:22 a.m.

I am all for imigration and oportunity, but I get a discount for my children's tuition to state universities because as a state resident I have paid state taxes to fund these state universities. Odd that we would consider giving this to unregistered immigrants as we cut tuition assistance to US military personnel.

Poorman

Fri, Apr 19, 2013 : 12:11 a.m.

Charley, are saying people steel your identity so they can pay taxes? Having trouble thinking very many immigrants do this. Let's not make our laws based on the assumption we could consider this typical.

Usual Suspect

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:51 p.m.

"intolerant and illiberal" Redundant

Charley Sullivan

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:30 p.m.

Poorman, many people, as I understand it, work on false numbers, or on other people's numbers. So the taxes are taken from their paychecks just like anyone else's. And, of course, they pay sales taxes just like the rest of us, property taxes as part of rent, etc. It's not my understanding that most undocumented workers are doing so for cash under the table.

Poorman

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 10:48 a.m.

Charley, How would they file a tax return without a social security number? How can they be legally employees without any documentation of citizenship or a visa? I don't think your assumption is correct.

Charley Sullivan

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:28 a.m.

Poorman, I don't know for sure of course, but I'm willing to bet Javier's family has been paying those same taxes, as most undocumented workers do. (And, one might add, not being able to access services for them.) Again, it is my understanding, but I'm not sure, and perhaps the folks at annarbor.com could check, but I believe that foreign students graduating from Michigan high schools (i.e., non-citizens, but Michigan residents) do qualify for in-state tuition. So this isn't about citizenship, but residency.

eagleman

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:47 a.m.

GoNavy, calling people racists is a lazy and invidious argument that does not address the points made while at the same vilifying someone because they disagree with you. That's downright intolerant and illiberal.

Usual Suspect

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:19 a.m.

"It's an amazing sacrifice on their part," U-M freshman Trevor Rolan, said of the protesters who were arrested. "They are 18 and they're willing to have this on their permanent record... It is really exciting that this happened." Ah, the simpleness of youth. You have a lot to learn, Trevor. "It doesn't seem right, having grown up here and not being able to attend my state university" I grew up here, I'm a legal citizen, I'm a Michigan resident, and I couldn't afford the in-state tuition. Cry me a river.

Silly Sally

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 10:55 a.m.

@go navy - do you mean American Indian? Native Americans are people who's families have lived here for generations, or even someone who was born here and grew up here.

Jay Thomas

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 5:21 a.m.

GoNavy... you put that out there like you are making some deep point or something, but what makes you think the natives you keep referencing want Javier here?

Robert E.

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:19 a.m.

So you're saying you applied to UofM, got accepted, and then turned down your acceptance solely because "in-state" tuition was too expensive? Thats a shame because "out-of-state" tuition is much, much more expensive. Im sure you found an appropriate alternative but if you really wanted to goto UofM, your high school counselor really did you a disservice. They should have been able to help you make it happen by applying for grants, scholarships, and such...it takes some extra work but it pays off...did you fill out the FAFSA?

eagleman

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:44 a.m.

GoNavy, he said LEGAL citizen which he is as we live in the legal entity called The United States of America.Your point would only make sense if he said he was a NATIVE AMERICAN.

GoNavy

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:05 a.m.

What Native American tribe do you hail from?

antikvetch

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:15 a.m.

What next? Temper tantrums cuz they want a new pony?

BernieP

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:15 a.m.

http://www.freep.com/article/20130417/NEWS06/304170154/university-of-michigan-undocumented-students-protest David Jesse of The Detroit Free Press adds... "Each public university in the state sets its own policy on the matter. Most charge out-of-state tuition. Western Michigan University offers in-state tuition rates to students with proof that they live in Michigan. Wayne State University doesn't ask for citizenship documentation. Saginaw Valley State University allows its president to approve waivers and allow migrant workers' children to be offered in-state tuition."

Kellie Woodhouse

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:42 a.m.

David's a great reporter. We also covered the policies of other schools in a previous article: http://www.annarbor.com/news/u-m-tuition-equality-in-play/

cibachrome

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:14 a.m.

I believe its 'unauthorized Democrats'.

Craig Lounsbury

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 11:39 a.m.

I'd probably be a democrat too if the alternative wanted to hunt me down and send me back to a place I have no memory of.

Robert E.

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:58 a.m.

Wow u guys are very clever...I didnt get it at first but now I do...good one! Thats a real knee-slapper!

Usual Suspect

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:20 a.m.

That, or "Undocumented Democrats."

LAW

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:13 a.m.

Lots of students born and bred in MI can't afford U of M, so why focus on only one group for equality?

Davidian

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:25 p.m.

Thank you. Seems obvious to me.

Michigan Man

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : midnight

Illegals have no business ripping off valuable spots at U of M or other State of Michigan colleges. Send back home!

Josh Thiele

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:16 p.m.

BOOOOOOO

anti-thug

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:16 p.m.

your Illegals, ask the negative american on the hill. image world with no boarder no country no wars.

GoNavy

Wed, Apr 17, 2013 : 11:53 p.m.

This country was built on the backs of immigrants.

whatislife

Fri, Apr 19, 2013 : 4:26 a.m.

@silly sally. It also took me some time to understand this. But without immigrant polpulation, so without lowered wage (as you said), actually the whole factories are more likely to be relocated to the other countries, such as China under this open economy these days. That's worse.

Usual Suspect

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:30 p.m.

"But it seems that they love government regulating immigration." Well, yeah, because the Constitution (which we know is considered to be an inconvenience to people on your side) makes it a responsibility of the government to do so.

Usual Suspect

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:28 p.m.

GoNavy, nobody said anything about Mexicans, until you did. PS The word is, "illegal."

Silly Sally

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 10:50 a.m.

@whatislife - if a lot of poor Mexican immigrants, legal or not, come to America, they depress the wage scale (rate) especially for the less educated and for jobs that require less skills. This does exactly the opposite of what you want. It creates a greater gap between the rich and the poor, creating more poor Americans and importing a lot of poor third world people who will take a long time to rise above that. Very few Mexican children do well in high school, graduate (only about 65%), and then attend schools such as Michigan. This is unfortunate, but true. Javier Contreres, the Skyline student who is an illegal alien, should be congratulated for his success. While I do not condone illegal immigration, it was a crime of his parents and not one of his, coming here at age 4. I grew up where I did because my parents lived there. I had no choice, nor did I ever question it. I doubt that he did either. What child would?

Silly Sally

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 10:36 a.m.

Actually, mostly by Americans who were born here. Some may have been the children of immigrants, or grandchildren, or great grandchildren.

stonecutter1

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 4:46 a.m.

Hey Navy, Why bring up Mexicans? Who said anything about that? Talking ILLEGAL immigrants bro, regardless of nationality!

whatislife

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 2:12 a.m.

They are trying to do their best for free movement of money and product, while they are doing their best restricting the movement of labor. That's how and why people with money and products get richer while those with only labor (i.e. poor people who only has their labor) get poorer. This is from Economics textbooks. Especially some people do not like government intervention/regulation on economic activities, gun controls, etc. But it seems that they love government regulating immigration.

katmando

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:59 a.m.

the natives people didn't think all those whites invading their where legal immigrants.

eagleman

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:41 a.m.

Just as unrestricted logging is bad so to is unrestricted immigration. This isn't a Mexican issue, but a fairness issue. Why cannot these people follow our laws? I have no problem with them immigrating here LEGALLY, but when they do so illegally I do have a problem. They disrespect us and our laws in doing so. Javier has been here since he was 4. Why the heck has he not become a legal citizen yet? 14 years seems like plenty of time to take a citizenship test. I also do not pity him for want of funds. A great many American kids cannot go to elite schools because of a lack of money. GoNavy, I am curious why you think we should have unregulated and unrestricted immigration. Can you explain to us how this is a just and sensible policy?

1bit

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:22 a.m.

@GoNavy: There are many that ignore history. It is refreshing to see someone like yourself who doesn't. With that said, just because someone emigrates to the U.S. doesn't necessarily mean they should get discounted tuition afforded to State residents who support the school with their tax dollars.

GoNavy

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:39 a.m.

@All (& Subsequent): The United States didn't restrict immigration until the Page Act of 1875 - which was instituted to specifically exclude the Chinese from entering this country. I doubt a single one of you hail from Native American tribes but - if I'm incorrect - please correct me. Instead, what I see is a group of people who, like those who held disdain for the Irish, the Italians, the Germans, the Eastern Europeans, the Africans, or the Puerto Ricans (etc.), now hold disdain for the Mexicans. There's a word for that view - this is a college town, so those of you with a thesaurus and the ability to use it will know the word to which I'm referring. PS The word is not "illegal."

Usual Suspect

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:22 a.m.

Thanks for that, GoNavy. If you see anybody here arguing against immigrants, let us know. So far all I see is discussion about illegal aliens.

Top Cat

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:18 a.m.

Legal immigrants!

stonecutter1

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:11 a.m.

Yep, legal immigrants.

Top Cat

Wed, Apr 17, 2013 : 11:51 p.m.

"unauthorized immigrants"?? So what's next, calling terrorists "intentional detonators of homemade explosives?"

SonnyDog09

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:37 p.m.

"When I use a word," Humpty Dumpty said, in rather a scornful tone, "it means just what I choose it to mean—neither more nor less."

anti-thug

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:13 p.m.

never question authority .

FaithInYpsi

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:19 a.m.

easy123...not sure I am following...

easy123

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 3:09 a.m.

in other words "illegals" because they are noy ;rga; here = [povre me worng!!!

Kyle Mattson

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:47 a.m.

Not sure if I follow Macabre. We may not always be able to get into a long email conversation regarding this and that, but we are open to feedback and it's simply easier to to get it directly rather than it all getting lost in the comments.

Macabre Sunset

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:30 a.m.

But you don't reply, you just threaten people with removal if they don't agree with your commenting guidelines.

Kyle Mattson

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 1:16 a.m.

Hi Top Cat. AP has had some debate recently regarding what the appropriate term is to use (google it for reference). MLive has settled on this one at this time. I don't want to start an off-topic debate here regarding which term everyone thinks is appropriate, so as always, we invite anyone that has feedback to please shoot us an email with your thoughts for us to consider going forward. Thanks.

Usual Suspect

Thu, Apr 18, 2013 : 12:23 a.m.

They have to use that term. It's from the MLive activism guide.

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