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Second federal judge orders temporary reinstatement of thousands of probationary employees fired by the Trump administration; U.S., Canada political tension could affect Maine summer tourism; Report: Incarceration rates rise in MS, U.S. despite efforts at reform; MI study: HBCU students show better mental health, despite challenges.

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Trump administration faces legal battles on birthright citizenship; the arrest of a Palestinian activist sparks protests over free speech. Conservationists voice concerns about federal job cuts impacting public lands, and Ohio invests in child wellness initiatives.

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Farmers worry promised federal reimbursements aren't coming while fears mount that the Trump administration's efforts to raise cash means the sale of public lands, and rural America's shortage of doctors has many physicians skipping retirement.

College students, staff rally in Sacramento for 'March in March'

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Friday, March 8, 2024   

Hundreds of college students and staff from across the state held a march and rally in Sacramento on Thursday, calling for changes to make higher education more affordable and accessible. The "March in March" revives an annual student-led tradition in the state capital.

With rents topping $2,000 a month for a one-bedroom place in Los Angeles, Pierce College student Francisco Delgado said the need for subsidized housing is huge.

"I am a full-time student and work full-time," he said, "and I can tell you, it truly is one of the most difficult, grueling things - 12-hour days, barely being able to afford rent at the end of the month, with it being so expensive here in California."

Last fall, the Cal State University Board of Trustees voted to hike tuition by 6% a year for the next five years.

Lawmakers are negotiating next year's budget now. So far, Gov. Gavin Newsom isn't calling for cuts to higher education, but the Legislative Analyst's office just bumped up the state's projected budget deficit to $73 billion, $15 billion more than it was in January.

Pierce College sociology professor James McKeever, president of the American Federation of Teachers Local 1521 Los Angeles Faculty Guild, said the May budget revision needs to prioritize college students and staff.

"The first thing we're asking is that they do not cut the education budget, even though it's a bad fiscal year - because cutting the education budget is like cutting California's future. And we want them to invest in the future."

Students at the rally also called on legislators to make it easier for undocumented students to attend college, and to focus on environmental and climate justice to ensure a sustainable future.

Disclosure: California Federation of Teachers contributes to our fund for reporting on Civic Engagement, Early Childhood Education, Education, Social Justice. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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