On April 7, 2025, students, educators, and community leaders from across Washington State came together on the steps of the Capitol in Olympia to demand one clear message from lawmakers: no cuts to higher education.
Organized in partnership with the Washington Student Association and the Washington Bus, the Communities for Our Colleges (C4C) team mobilized students from Yakima, Pasco, Spokane, Everett, Tacoma, and Seattle for a Financial Day of Action. The rally called attention to proposals that would slash higher education funding, reduce financial aid, and increase tuition costs.
Despite the rain, energy ran high as dozens of students and allies gathered at the Capitol Campus to raise their voices for educational justice. Participants shared powerful personal stories about the impact of college affordability and the consequences of disinvestment in public education.
One of those voices was Angelita Cervantes, a student from Yakima Valley College and a member of Communities for Our Colleges. In her speech, Angelita described the daily struggle of balancing work, family, and school—and how proposed cuts would threaten her chance to continue her education.
“For the last 14 years, I worked in agriculture. I barely made enough for basic necessities—there was no way I could afford college,” Angelita said. “Now, as a student, I’m working two jobs just to survive. If this bill passes and I lose my financial aid, I will have to drop out.”
Her words echoed across the crowd as she challenged lawmakers to reconsider their priorities:
“We’re not asking for a handout. We’re asking for a fair shot,” she continued. “Free college wouldn’t just change my life—it would save it. Say no to budget cuts. Say yes to free college. Say yes to our future.”
The rally concluded with chants, music, and calls to action urging legislators to invest in Washington’s students instead of burdening them with more debt.
C4C leaders reminded attendees that moments like this are about more than one proposal—they are about building a long-term movement to make college accessible and affordable for all.
As budget negotiations continue, Communities for Our Colleges will keep organizing, educating, and amplifying the voices of students who are too often left out of policy decisions.
Together, we are fighting for a future where every student—regardless of income, background, or immigration status—has the opportunity to learn, thrive, and lead.
