Students, educators and community members gathered at the California State Capitol on March 12 for this year’s March in March to advocate for increased funding, expanded resources and equitable access to education across California.
The annual event brought together community college students, faculty and advocates from across the state. This year’s program included workshops, a march from Southside Park to the Capitol and a rally featuring multiple speakers.
Workshops held earlier in the day covered topics such as student advocacy, nonviolence and “Know Your Rights” training, including information on how to respond to immigration enforcement situations.
Speakers at the event emphasized the importance of education as a “second chance” for students, regardless of the challenges they face outside the classroom.
Attendees traveled from across California to participate in the march.
Julian Lee, a 23-year-old photography student from Santa Rosa Junior College in Sonoma County, said he has attended the event multiple times and attended this year to document the march and support the cause.
“I just hope that they can listen to the people,” Lee said. “Everybody has a voice, but often they go unnoticed.”
Sally Cruz, a 20-year-old Santa Rosa Junior College communications major, said she attended to help amplify community voices.
“Our voice is so powerful,” Cruz said. “We need more voices to show that we still have rights.”
Participants said the march highlights the needs of both students and campus employees.
Yolanda Austin Pope, a 57-year-old staff member from West Los Angeles College, said she attended to support both groups.
“I’m here today to support the students and make sure they get the funding that they need,” Pope said. “And also for the staff. We need the proper funding so we can support the students as they come to campus.”
Vonta Harris, a 53-year-old staff member from East Los Angeles College, said investing in students benefits the state overall.
“Students are a vital part of the economy of this state,” Harris said. “If students can get discounted or free education, it’s great for the economy because those students become workers in this state.”
Harris also pointed to challenges related to campus resources, including childcare availability.
“When resources like childcare are cut or not equitably supplied, it puts more stress on students,” Harris said. “They have to stay in school longer to complete their courses. Those resources are vital.”
Jeff Freitas, president of the California Federation of Teachers, emphasized the need for greater investment in education during the rally.
“We’re here right now because we deserve more,” Freitas said. “Instead of funding wars, we need to fund education.”