Protesting UC Students Arrested, Avoid Jail

By Nancy Mullane
March 2, 2010

Senator Leland Yee mediated on behalf of several protesting University of California students who participated in a sit-in in the office of Assemblyman Jim Nielson. The students refused to leave unless the Assemblyman promised to protect funding for higher education. Staff for the Assemblyman said he did not have time in his schedule to meet with the students. Five of the students were arrested, but at Yee’s request they avoided a stay in county jail and instead were “cited and released” by the California Highway Patrol.

“My hat is off to those brave students,” said Yee. “They conducted themselves in accordance with the principles of non-violent protest and ensured their voices were heard here in the Capitol. The use of peaceful civil disobedience among UC students is well documented and has proven successful on issues ranging from civil rights to open space to apartheid. I commend their bravery and urge them to continue to hold their elected representatives accountable for their votes.”

The five were part of a group of over 200 students who went to the Capitol yesterday to oppose further cuts to higher education. Throughout the day, groups of students approached the offices of legislators, asking to meet with them to talk about the financial crisis affecting thousands of UC students throughout the state. UC Student Association President Victor Sanchez addressed the crowd from the north steps of the Capitol. “Higher education needs a stable source of funding!” he cried as the students cheered. “I’m sorry, Sacramento, but we ain’t done. We can’t stop. We won’t stop!” In meetings with legislators throughout the day, students urged them to create a dedicated funding stream for higher education, fully fund Cal Grants and roll back fee increases.

“Senator Yee was incredibly helpful,” said Claudia Magaña, a UC Santa Cruz student who was arrested. “We would not have felt as confident without his support. He understands our plight and his assistance allowed our voices to be taken seriously. His participation showed how strong of supporter he is for the student movement and public education.”

Students were expected to demonstrate on the steps of the Capitol building at around 1pm Monday as part of a planned assembly against student fee increases approved by the UC Board of Regents nearly four months ago. Students and faculty blamed cuts initiated by state lawmakers as the reason for drastic fee increases by the universities.

“Students have a crystal clear idea who ultimately will impact their success and are demanding legislators hold UC executives accountable,” said Lakesha Harrison, President of AFSCME 3299, which represents over 20,000 UC employees. “Senator Yee has been on the front lines holding UC executives to account. His commitment to stand with students and workers is unwavering.”

On Thursday, March 4, students and workers will conduct protests throughout the state to defend public education against budget cuts, layoffs, furloughs, and tuition hikes.

[ Source: kalwnews.org ]