Students to hold rally on campus Feb. 5

Western Votes and the Associated Students of Western Washington University are planning a walk-out and rally from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 5, in the Performing Arts Center Plaza on campus.

”In this rally it is our goal to educate the public about what it would mean to have the state's budget for higher education cut and inspire the student body into taking action to inform their legislators that they do not agree with the governor's new budget and proposed cuts to higher education,” said Western Votes member Heather Siddiqui.

During the rally, which is open to students of both Whatcom Community College and Western Washington University, booths will be set up to help students contact their legislators through phone calls and letters. The event will be an opportunity to gather student testimonies that will be sent to the state legislature.

“Feb. 5 is the statewide day of action. Universities across the state will be taking some sort of action to help get their student body involved and to let their voices be heard by the Legislature,” Siddiqui said. “Together we can make a difference and prevent substantial cuts to work study, financial aid and cuts to higher education.”

Speakers at the rally will include AS President Matt Jarrell, student member of the Western Board of Trustees Sarah Ishmael and professor Bill Lyne, president of United Faculty of Washington State.

For more information about the event, or for disability accommodations, contact Heather Siddiqui at (206) 225-8512 or by e-mail at siddiqh@students.wwu.edu.