On May 31, 2025, Communities for Our Colleges (C4C) brought together over 40 student leaders from across central and eastern Washington for a powerful Regional Gathering in Granger. Students from Spokane Falls Community College, Spokane Community College, Columbia Basin College, Yakima Valley College, and YVC–Grandview met at the Radio KDNA building to deepen relationships, reflect on the past legislative session, and chart the next phase of their organizing for free college and racial equity.
The day opened with a warm welcome and an icebreaker that set the tone for connection and collaboration. Students shared what motivated them to join the gathering and what they hoped to learn. Quickly, the space filled with energy and purpose as participants reflected on the current political moment and how policies at both the state and federal levels affect their lives.
“This government is trying to erase the history of Mexicans and Latinos,” one student said. “We can’t stay silent on issues that affect all of us. We’re not people of fear—we’re people of courage.”
That sense of courage and shared purpose fueled the rest of the day’s work. Students divided into groups by college to map out key allies and targets in their regions—identifying elected officials, organizations, and community partners who can help advance C4C’s priorities: Free College, Pay Pathways, and Basic Needs (including childcare).
Each team developed a three-month strategy to mobilize students, staff, and community members across Washington:
- Spokane Colleges will lead outreach in local schools and libraries, host educational events, and collaborate with cultural organizations and civil rights partners like MOSAIC to spread awareness about Free College.
- Columbia Basin College students will organize community-based outreach through churches, local businesses, and social media to connect more families to Free College opportunities and to advocate for equitable pay pathways.
- Yakima Valley College and Grandview students will host informational sessions, expand childcare advocacy, and invite local and state representatives to upcoming events—culminating in the August Student Power Building Conference in Spokane.
Throughout the summer, these student leaders will be surveying peers, meeting weekly, and building community partnerships to strengthen access to college, childcare, and support systems for parenting and undocumented students. Their work is not only about policy—it’s about building a movement that centers the voices of those most affected.
As C4C continues this regional organizing push, one message from the gathering stands out clearly: students are leading the way toward a more just and inclusive higher education system in Washington State.
