Faculty union’s political action committee garners student support for Proposition 30
Photo Credit: Max Shepherd/Bradley Mossman
Students chalked up the sidewalk during the barbecue for a chance to win a Kindle.
Sharman Bruni, Online Editor
October 17, 2012
Filed under Events, On campus
Students flocked to the 1400 building at Solano Community College’s main campus on Oct. 10 to enjoy a free barbecue while political activists encouraged student to register to vote.
“This age group is so underrepresented,” said Professor Evangeline East, speaking of the large number of young students present at the barbecue.
East is a speech teacher at Solano College and was at the event to encourage students to register and vote ‘yes’ on Proposition 30 and ‘no’ on 32. Propositions 30 and 32 were important talking points at the barbecue and many community members got up to the microphone to speak about the propositions.
“Just don’t look on and do nothing,” said student government representative Charlene Ott, speaking to the crowd.
Professor Jim Dekloe pointed to Proposition 13 and how educational funding was reduced as a result of it being passed. Dekloe believes a similar educational downturn will occur, if Proposition 30 does not pass.
Former foster youth were present at the event serving food in coordination with the Foster Youth Success Initiative. Counselor Kamber Sta. Maria relayed that the program is a club on campus which supports both former men and women in the foster program, helping them toward the road to success.
A similar barbecue took place at the Vallejo and Vacaville campuses a day before and approximately 40 people registered to vote in Vallejo while another 37 registered at the Vacaville campus, said Bob Daprato.
Student Ruben Hernandez stopped by to enjoy the barbecue and relayed that he is already registered to vote.
“Because of this school I’m more aware of issues going on,” Hernandez said.
Superintendent/President Jowel Laguerre made an appearance as well and was excited by the turnout of students.
“They never fail to show up,” said Laguerre.
“When you don’t vote, other people win,” said professor Thomas Bundenthal.
The PAC paid for the barbecue through donations from faculty members, Daprato said.
