Skyline students and faculty walked out on March 4 as part of the Statewide Day of Action.

Hundreds of faculty and students took part in the demonstration against the educational budget cuts in California and rally organizers sought to spread the word and gain support from the community.

Coordinated by members of Associated Students of Skyline College and the Skyline Against the Budget Cuts group, the rally attracted interest not only from people around campus, but also from local news networks like ABC 7, who came to cover the event.

The proposed budgets cuts will see increases in education costs for colleges across the state. Community colleges in particular will have $800 million in cuts.

During the rally, faculty and students spoke to the crowd about the budget crisis, the protest on campus and the culminating march in downtown San Francisco, which took place later on in the day.

“You have to speak up for your own education,” said Pat Deamer, a Skyline math professor, during the the rally. “They [politicians] need to know that the history of community colleges started off with no tuition at all. It has had to change because of budget cuts and the cost of living.”

The protest gained a considerable amount of interest and participation from students around campus. Many were outraged with state officials and were willing to take action.

“When you write your letter to your legislative officials, don’t be polite,” said Jamie Ball, a Skyline student majoring in liberal arts, at the rally. “By all means, let them know. Don’t pull any punches. I am disgusted with what’s happening and I am ashamed to be a citizen of California. We deserve better than this.”

Throughout the rally, organizers and the crowd marched throughout campus and into various buildings chanting phrases such as “Hey hey, ho ho, the budget cuts have got to go!”

Some faculty at Skyline College were proud to be taking part in the movement. Many of them saw it as history in the making.

“It takes a lot of courage for students to stand up and walk out,” Katharine Harer, the Honors Program Coordinator and English professor. Skyline doesn’t seem highly politicized but it’s great that they did it for an important reason. It sends a message to students that they’re involved in a statewide movement.”

The feelings were mutual among students around campus. Several students expressed pride for their campus and the community

during the rally.

“I believe that the rally was successful at Skyline College,” said Sarah Figueroa, an anthropology major. “The students and community who participated in the walkout really united and in their solidarity were able to experience a sense of accomplishment in being active

citizens. I was so proud of everyone who participated, proud of our teachers and administrators for embracing our demonstration and proud

of the group.”