I have been working with AmeriCorps members here at Sonoma State for almost 5 years. It has been a pleasure as well as a learning experience for me.

In light of the recent repeal of reproductive rights throughout the United States, I can't help but wonder how this would affect the mortality rates for pregnant women of color. The high mortality rate for pregnant WOC is a persistent issue throughout the United States.

“It was Interesting,” said Miranda Borero, a freshman from THAR 160 on her experience at Shadow Day this year, “I’ve never really done a ‘shadow’ project before so it felt very new.” 

I had the opportunity to interview Sonoma State students and hear their thoughts on one of the pillars of American democracy, the right to vote. Historically, young people vote at much lower rates when compared to older people.

“The more [communities] utilize this model or ones similar to it, the more it will benefit every community.” said campus police chief Nader Oweis about the entry of Sonoma State University into the SAFE program of Petaluma, Rohnert Park, and Cotati on January 23, 2023.

As a woman of color, voting isn't a choice for me; it's crucial. Time and time again, my rights as a human are up for grabs. Not caring about voting is a privilege afforded to people whose rights aren't continually debated.

As a Sonoma State student who has dealt with mental health issues for most of my life and has experienced the difficulties with access to mental health care, having an accessible option for Sonoma State regardless of income is something I feel is incredibly important.

“There were no opportunities for students like me, that look like me,” Dr. Wendy Castañeda-Leal explained during a public Zoom meeting with Community Action Partnership Sonoma County.

Throughout the four years I have been at Sonoma State, the school and surrounding areas have been ravaged by fires, some started by arsonists while others were started by a massive gas and electric company.

On March 10th, Dr. Stephen Bittner and Dr. Zeke Baker held a lecture entitled “Why Should I Care About the War in Ukraine?” which was hosted by the Center for Community Engagement. Overall, the lecture was super informative and interesting.