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Ethnic Studies Campaign

What is the purpose?

The purpose of the campaign is to increase student participation and civic engagement in legislative advocacy for higher education issues. HELAC provides:

  • A community of youth-led and youth-oriented organizations advancing civic involvement.

  • Amplification of relevant legislation through student mobilization and advocacy.

  • Direct participation in legislative action, including written letters of support, testimonies, and meetings.

  • Collaboration with state entities including legislative advisors, the CA Department of Education, and the Governor’s administration.

HELAC focuses on ensuring student voices are heard in shaping policies that affect higher education, such as ethnic studies, mental health support, and student welfare.

What does the campaign look like?

HELAC organizes advocacy efforts around a tiered bill mobilization strategy:

Tier 1: Highest Priority

  • Activities: rallies, phone and email banking, creating video testimonies, providing public comment.

  • Example bills: AB101 (Ethnic Studies), SB14 (Mental Health), AB824 (Civic Engagement).

Tier 2: Moderate Advocacy

  • Activities: setting up constituent meetings with legislators.

  • Example bills: AB104 (Credit Recovery).

Tier 3: Minimal Support

  • Activities: writing and submitting letters of support.

  • Example bills: AB75 (Facilities Bond).

The coalition tracks current bill updates, including which bills are scheduled for hearings and the level of engagement required.

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How can my chapter or I get involved? 

HELAC encourages active participation through preparation and coordinated action leading up to legislative hearings:

  1. Submit Letters of Support

    • Prepare and submit official letters backing priority bills.

  2. Participate in Public Comment

    • Sign up for public comment opportunities.

    • Deliver in-person or virtual statements at hearings.

  3. Create Video Testimonials

    • Record short videos explaining the importance of the legislation.

    • Share these across social media to amplify student support.

  4. Engage on Social Media

    • Post updates on Instagram, Twitter, or other platforms to raise awareness.

    • Tag legislators and remind students to participate.

  5. Follow a Timeline

    • One week before: submit letters, open public comment sign-ups, start social media campaigns.

    • Two days before: continue collecting testimonials, post updates, submit written comments.

    • Day of hearing: final reminders, submit last video testimonials, and public comments, publish press releases.

Through these coordinated efforts, chapters and individual students can actively influence policy outcomes in California higher education.

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