We believe higher education should be affordable, relevant, and accessible to all, including public universities, community colleges, and technical and vocational programs. That’s why we are pushing back against the attacks on academic freedom, institutional autonomy, and student opportunity, while advancing a bold vision for a more just and inclusive higher education system.
We are building a movement that unites students, faculty, staff, and their unions with alumni, community organizations, and reform-minded college leaders who share a stake in making college affordable and protecting campus freedom. Together, we are reimagining a higher education system that is equitable and accessible to all, whether that means community college, vocational, or technical education.
We are [students, parents, alumni, faculty, education workers, and community members] and [college presidents, administrators, and board members] who believe in the promise of college as a pathway to a better life and a foundation for a free society.
We pledge to protect federal and state financial aid programs that make college possible for millions of students. Pell Grants, work-study, and loan programs must be strengthened — not cut — so that every student has the support they need to succeed.
We pledge to make post-secondary education affordable, accessible, and relevant to all people — including debt-free for students with modest means. Degree and non-degree courses must prepare students for meaningful work and meaningful lives, without burdening them with excessive debt.
We pledge to stand firm against dictates from federal or state governments that would undermine research, teaching, shared governance, or academic freedom at our colleges and universities. No one should be punished for what they study, write, or say on our campuses.
We pledge to invest in and strengthen programs to fight discrimination, foster diverse student bodies, and make campus life inclusive, safe, and welcoming.
We pledge not to share legally protected student, faculty, and staff data or allow ICE to sow fear and chaos in our community. We welcome international students for what they teach us about the world.
We pledge to oppose federal and state cuts to lifesaving medical and public health research.
History will show that during a grave crisis for America’s democracy and the free institutions on which it stands, our colleges, universities and organizations united in support of justice, freedom, equality, and education for all.
Take the pledge and join our movement for higher education advocacy.
