California’s college students cannot wait. We need immediate financial aid now | Opinion
Strengthen financial aid
“CSU Chancellor: Leveling the playing field through financial aid helps our country | Opinion,” (sacbee.com, May 6)
We echo CSU Chancellor Mildred García’s call to strengthen Pell Grants. While we support efforts to expand Pell Grants, our students cannot wait. We need immediate funding for the Cal Grant reform enacted two years ago. Cal Grant reform offers a solution to the financial barriers students face. By streamlining the program, removing obstacles and ensuring equitable access to state aid, we can make higher education attainable for many more students.
Funding Cal Grant reform demonstrates our dedication to investing in our students, including adult learners, student parents and underserved communities, as well as our economy and future.
As representatives of California’s universities, colleges and community colleges, we stand united in our commitment to strengthening financial aid and expanding access to higher education. Let us seize this opportunity to lead by example and invest in the future of our students and our state.
Celene Aridin
President, University of California Student Association
Cassandra Flandre-Nguyen
President, Student Senate for California Community Colleges
Iese Esera
President, Cal State Student Association
Observation
“Donald Trump promises to rescue California from ‘leftists’,” (modbee.com, Sep. 29, 2023)
It’s interesting that Donald Trump tells us what he is going to do for us while spending his entire career doing everything for himself. Joe Biden, meanwhile, who has spent his life working for others, tells us what we can and should do for ourselves.
Jack Heinsius
Modesto
Driven from both parties
“2024 is not the time for third parties. If you don’t like Biden or Trump, don’t vote | Opinion,” (modbee.com, Jan. 29)
The upcoming presidential election is causing supporters of both parties to act exactly the same. Please excuse me for being incapable of taking Joe Biden’s supporters seriously when they behave exactly like Donald Trump. The lack of civility and the inability to speak to how this national cage match could impact those of us in the Central Valley drove me from both parties.
I found a group that is concerned with the economic problems of my area. I am now registered to vote with the American Solidarity Party. Wasting my vote, you say? No. I am exercising my right to vote my conscience and support a party that will not stoop to the shenanigans of the members of both the elephants and the donkeys.
Leslie Shaw Klinger
Modesto
Respect and empathy for all
“Pope Francis criticized for using homophobic slur in bishop meeting,” (modbee.com, May 28)
Using offensive terms when referring to members of the LGBTQ+ community is not in line with the teachings of the church.
Pope Francis apologized after he was quoted using a homophobic slur. I commend him for his humility in acknowledging the need for an apology. His actions serve as a valuable example for all priests and individuals who may have used derogatory language when discussing members of the LGBTQ+ community. Pope Francis’ commitment to respecting the dignity of every human being reminds us to treat others as we would like to be treated.
It is imperative that we uphold the principles of respect, empathy and understanding for all individuals both inside and outside of the church. It is crucial to engage in open and respectful conversations about LGBTQ+ issues, seeking to bridge the gap between differing perspectives and finding common ground based on shared values of dignity and human rights.
Let us strive to create an environment where everyone’s dignity is honored, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Fr. Misael Avila
Turlock