Working with concerned citizens and educators, students at the University of California, California State University and state community colleges have formed a coalition to protest proposed budget cuts. Building such a large, diverse framework for joint action is admirable and likely the most effective way to address an issue that affects all public university students statewide.

Locally, UCSD, San Diego State, CSU San Marcos, Southwestern College, and City, Mesa and Miramar Colleges are participating in the campaign to stop the budget cuts.

The statewide week of action, which began April 14, gives colleges across California a chance to unite in protest against Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s budget proposals and initiate unified action.

California college students met April 3 to establish a set of demands, and a statewide day of action is planned to occur on April 26. Students will present a set of five demands to the governor and local representatives and participate in classroom walk-outs and marches.

The unity and organization of this statewide effort is commendable. It is an actual call of united action for a common goal.