Spring 2024
WHEREAS, California community colleges serve over 2 million students statewide, highlighting the system's significant role in providing higher education; among these students, an estimated 5.8% identify as having a disability, while the dropout rates for students with disabilities stand at 13% for the 2018-2019 academic year, indicating a critical need for enhanced support systems and accommodations tailored specifically to the needs of the disabled community to foster their academic success and retention;
WHEREAS, The current Chapter 4.5 - Equity in Higher Education Act, while aiming to ensure equity within higher education, falls short in adequately addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by disabled students at community colleges, underscoring the necessity for legislative amendments to better support this student population;
WHEREAS, Acknowledging disability as an identity is essential for creating a campus culture that respects and values the diverse experiences of disabled students, promoting belonging and self-identity beyond their impairments as they have forged a group identity and this demands adaptable and tailored support services to meet the varied needs of these students, strengthening their sense of community and inclusion; and
WHEREAS, Integrating disability into cultural and diversity center narratives via targeted events and opportunities is vital for dismantling stigma and cultivating inclusivity, aligning with the Chancellor's Vision 2030 for equitable success, access, and support to make supporting disabled students a cornerstone of equity in higher education, thereby emphasizing our dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable learning environment for all; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges advocate for the amendment of Chapter 4.5 - Equity in Higher Education Act to include a new article dedicated to the support of the disabled community attending community college in California, ensuring that legislative frameworks are in place to provide comprehensive support and accommodations, to promoting disability studies and inclusive practices within community college curricula, alongside organizing events and opportunities that highlight the contributions and experiences of disabled students, thereby facilitating their full participation in academic and community life;
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges collaborate with the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office, and the Board of Governors to establish disability safe spaces within the cultural and diversity centers, aimed at providing tailored support, accommodations, and a platform for disability identity expression and recognition, thus the recognition of disability as an identity will be emphasized, advocating for its integration into the narrative of cultural and diversity centers, thereby contributing to the dismantling of disability stigma and promoting a more inclusive campus culture;
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges work with the Board of Governors to align efforts with the Chancellor's Vision 2030 goals of equity in success, access, and support, ensuring that disabled students receive the recognition, support, and opportunities they deserve, thus making a significant stride toward true equity in higher education; and
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges articulate a clear commitment to improving the academic and social experiences of disabled students within California community colleges and underscore the necessity of legislative action, campus-wide cultural shifts, and the promotion of inclusive practices to ensure that disabled students not only succeed but thrive in their educational environments.
WHEREAS, The current Chapter 4.5 - Equity in Higher Education Act, while aiming to ensure equity within higher education, falls short in adequately addressing the specific needs and challenges faced by disabled students at community colleges, underscoring the necessity for legislative amendments to better support this student population;
WHEREAS, Acknowledging disability as an identity is essential for creating a campus culture that respects and values the diverse experiences of disabled students, promoting belonging and self-identity beyond their impairments as they have forged a group identity and this demands adaptable and tailored support services to meet the varied needs of these students, strengthening their sense of community and inclusion; and
WHEREAS, Integrating disability into cultural and diversity center narratives via targeted events and opportunities is vital for dismantling stigma and cultivating inclusivity, aligning with the Chancellor's Vision 2030 for equitable success, access, and support to make supporting disabled students a cornerstone of equity in higher education, thereby emphasizing our dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable learning environment for all; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges advocate for the amendment of Chapter 4.5 - Equity in Higher Education Act to include a new article dedicated to the support of the disabled community attending community college in California, ensuring that legislative frameworks are in place to provide comprehensive support and accommodations, to promoting disability studies and inclusive practices within community college curricula, alongside organizing events and opportunities that highlight the contributions and experiences of disabled students, thereby facilitating their full participation in academic and community life;
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges collaborate with the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office, and the Board of Governors to establish disability safe spaces within the cultural and diversity centers, aimed at providing tailored support, accommodations, and a platform for disability identity expression and recognition, thus the recognition of disability as an identity will be emphasized, advocating for its integration into the narrative of cultural and diversity centers, thereby contributing to the dismantling of disability stigma and promoting a more inclusive campus culture;
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges work with the Board of Governors to align efforts with the Chancellor's Vision 2030 goals of equity in success, access, and support, ensuring that disabled students receive the recognition, support, and opportunities they deserve, thus making a significant stride toward true equity in higher education; and
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges articulate a clear commitment to improving the academic and social experiences of disabled students within California community colleges and underscore the necessity of legislative action, campus-wide cultural shifts, and the promotion of inclusive practices to ensure that disabled students not only succeed but thrive in their educational environments.