Many students at Cal State Bakersfield spoke up about needing a sense of community as a result of the announcement of Donald Trump becoming the 47th president-elect.
“[There’s] cultural shift of do we trust the people around us. Can I be honest with people with who I am and not fear for their reaction for it,” said Wren Villicano, phycology major.
Villicano said that the people who can speak up and show support during these times should do so loudly.
Student leaders at CSUB agree and are committed to supporting the diverse voices on campus. During an ASI meeting on Nov. 8 clubs such as Latinos Unidos por Educacion, Native and Indigenous student coalition, Black Student Association, Kaibigan Paso, LGBTQ+ Network, Middle Eastern North African association, Culture Club, Global Bridge, and Floral design club united for a statement led by Marcila Diaz, president of the Native and Indigenous student coalition.
“We… want to reiterate our dedication to every student here at CSUB, as the clubs that represent diverse voices here at CSUB,” said Diaz. “We want everyone to know that regardless of the result of the election, we stand united in our commitment to supporting, advocating, and upholding the rights of all students to a safe, respectful and inclusive space.”
Some CSUB students have shared their disappointment, fear and utter shock of the announcement of Trump’s triumph. As a result, student leaders are spearheading an event on Tuesday Nov. 19 to have an emotional safe space post-election.
“The main goal is to provide a safe space for the students so they can reach out to clubs and organizations, so they could feel supported here on campus,” said Victor Gutierrez Hernandez, president of the LUPE club and ASI director of international student relations.
Gutierrez Hernandez said that he noticed that his friends and people in minority communities were let down by the election results. He said that the values of the country seemed to have shifted.
For so many students, CSUB is a place for many students to find a sense of community for a range of minority population. This event’s will be an emotional debrief about the election, where minority communities can share their feelings and concerns in a safe space. Clubs and organizations will be present to provide support and resources to these students.
