WOODLAND HILLS—On March 14, Los Angeles Pierce College students, staff and community closed down Victory Boulevard in protest of possible budget cuts.
If the raise in tuition is passed students will pay $66 per unit, three times the amount of what they pay now, with a 15 percent cut in courses.
“I can barely afford classes now and I work part-time. The fee increase is insane,” said Rebeca Mu ñoz, an undecided freshman student.
Supporters of the “Enough is Enough,” rally protested for two hours on Victory Boulevard between Winnetka Avenue and Mason Street. Students and staff carried banners in response to the increases reading “Stop the Cuts! They Hurt,” “Talk is Cheap”¦Higher Education is Not” and “Charlie Sheen Winning, Students Losing,” echoing the media attention acquired by the actor in the last few weeks.
As a symbol for the budget protest, supporters wore a green band around their arm. Red bands were carried by Associated Students Organization members and event coordinators.
Among the crowd of advocates was Sociology Professor James McKeever who encouraged students and thanked them for their participation.
“They are cutting away at your future and you have to stop it now. You are the change,” said McKeever. After the march, McKeever participated in a debate titled, “Education: How to Fix It,” against Economics Professor Pam Brown.
Staff members also joined in speeches during the protest as they explained the cuts will affect them as well because once courses are cut they will be too.
“This is a big day. You worked hard to be here and they want to take your education away from you,” said Assistant Professor of French Sylvie Young.
Many students walked past the march toward their classrooms. “I have a Math test to study for,” said Sophomore Lilit Ter-Astvatsatryan to Canyon News.
Student organizers promoted for the march during morning classrooms, Facebook groups, fliers and word of mouth.
According to the “Enough is Enough” Facebook event page, the march was “a time to unite against the death of the educational system,” and a day for awareness for both the community and legislators.
The protest at LAPC corresponded with the “March in March” demonstration, where California community college students and staff marched to Sacramento for the same purpose.