Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Declares a National Emergency at the Southern Border

Key Actions

• Vanderbilt’s Law School should analyze the legal implications of the national emergency declaration and its impact on immigration law and policy. This analysis can provide insights into potential changes in immigration enforcement and legal challenges that may arise, which could affect international students and faculty.
• The Office of Federal Relations should monitor developments related to the deployment of military personnel at the southern border. Understanding the federal government’s approach to border security can help Vanderbilt anticipate changes in federal funding priorities and potential impacts on research grants related to national security and defense.
• Vanderbilt’s Public Policy Studies Program should conduct research on the socio-economic impacts of increased border security measures. This research can inform policy discussions and contribute to a broader understanding of how these measures affect communities, public safety, and resource allocation.
• The Center for Latin American Studies should engage in dialogue with policymakers and community organizations to address the humanitarian aspects of the border crisis. By providing expertise and facilitating discussions, the center can help shape policies that consider the human rights and welfare of affected populations.
• Vanderbilt’s Medical Center should prepare for potential public health challenges related to the border crisis, such as the spread of infectious diseases or the need for medical care for migrants. Collaborating with public health agencies and NGOs can enhance Vanderbilt’s capacity to respond to these challenges.

Opportunities

• The executive order presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Peabody College to expand research on the educational needs of immigrant children. By developing programs and partnerships focused on supporting these students, Peabody can contribute to improving educational outcomes and integration efforts.
• Vanderbilt can leverage its expertise in international relations to engage in policy analysis and advocacy related to U.S.-Mexico relations. By providing evidence-based recommendations, Vanderbilt can influence bilateral discussions and promote cooperative solutions to border security and immigration challenges.
• The focus on combating drug trafficking offers an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Center for Addiction Research to collaborate with federal agencies on initiatives aimed at reducing drug-related harm. By participating in research and intervention programs, the center can contribute to national efforts to address the opioid crisis.
• By hosting conferences and workshops on border security and immigration policy, Vanderbilt can position itself as a leader in the national conversation on these critical issues. Engaging with scholars, policymakers, and community leaders can enhance Vanderbilt’s reputation and influence in shaping policy solutions.
• The emphasis on national security provides an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Engineering School to develop technologies and solutions that enhance border security. By collaborating with government agencies and industry partners, the school can contribute to innovative approaches to securing the nation’s borders.

Relevance Score: 4 (The order necessitates major process changes due to its impact on immigration policy, national security, and public health, which are relevant to multiple areas of Vanderbilt’s operations and research.)