Soros-Backed Initiative Offers Empowering ‘Know Your Rights’ Workshop for ASU Undocumented Students

By Matthew Holloway |

The Aliento Club at Arizona State University (ASU) recently held a workshop titled “Know Your Rights.” This training aimed to equip undocumented students with essential strategies to avoid deportation amidst evolving U.S. immigration policies.

According to Cronkite News, the workshop sought to empower attendees with knowledge about their legal rights. Emily Sotelo Estrada, co-chair of Aliento, emphasized the importance of this education, stating, “All of these students … they have homes. They have families. And it’s important that they know their rights. So the purpose of this presentation was to, for one, educate them.”

Aliento reported significant outreach, noting that they had engaged over 240 students across 21 schools, along with numerous discussions and impactful events at the Arizona Capitol.

The workshop not only concentrated on rights but also provided practical guidance. Attendees learned about identifying ICE vehicles, understanding search laws, and accessing immigration attorney contact information. One workshop slide advised participants to have a U.S. citizen drive if they needed to travel, to limit trips to essentials, and to be cautious in dealings with law enforcement.

Diana Cortes, program chair for Aliento, pointed out the growing fears in the community. She stated, “We’re just here to listen to the people’s concerns and address them. We’re having ‘Know Your Rights’ and all of those workshops in response to what’s being asked from us from our community.”

Aliento, founded by Reyna Montoya, received initial funding from George Soros’ Open Society Institute between 2016 and 2018. Their mission is to empower those impacted by the immigration system and highlight the humanity of individuals in detention.

Concerns regarding the organization intensified following their protest against a peaceful demonstration by College Republicans United at ASU earlier this month. Observers noted that the group’s activities reflect ongoing tensions regarding immigration discourse on college campuses.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.