Student Trustee Jared Smith spoke emotionally and from the heart as he brought forward student concerns about reductions in affinity group celebrations. In his role, Smith read statements from students that shifted the mood of the Board of Trustees meeting, as Butte College considers major cuts to resource centers that are crucial to students’ sense of belonging at Butte College. He stated that there was a sense of hipocrasy from the college due to the public statements supporting diversity, including the mission statement, while the college makes cuts to programs supporting diverse students. He asked the Board to repair communication.
Board member William McGinnis also became emotional during Smith’s presentation, voicing conflict between equity and fiscal responsibility.
Trustee Rick Krepelka said he wants to understand the problem so it can be addressed properly. Trustee John Blacklock expressed optimism, saying that even if the dialogue is uncomfortable, it is important. He added that as a Hispanic-serving institution, the college wants affinity groups to feel pride in their accomplishments and supports these celebrations.
Students then expressed distress at the lack of communication around cuts to programs the students said were essential to their sense of belonging at Butte College.
Yasmine Freitas emphasized the lack of communication regarding cuts.
Celestina Galicia-Davis, Ramon Jimenez and Madeline Manning all read heartfelt statements about the importance of community celebrations, especially more personal events that invite friends and family, that feel more intimate then larger graduation ceremony. Student speakers emphasized that we are an HSI institution and that students notice when the values of the college are not being upheld.
The room was silent after the students spoke and many on the Board and in the audience were visably impacted by the students statements.
Individual trustees voiced support for students, acknowledged the college’s responsiblity as an HSI instituion and encouraged the college to find a solution to this situation.
Trustee Blacklock transitioned conversation by acknowledging the courage it takes to speak in these circumstances then moved on to regular Board business.
