Organize the South

Yesterday about 40 students from around the state held a press conference in front of the Georgia legislative assembly demanding hands off the education budget. The press conferences was put together in a couple of days and included students from University of West Georgia, Dalton State University, Augusta State University, Georgia State University, and other campuses.

Last week the University System of Georgia Chancellor and some state legislators floated the idea of a 77% tuition increase. This week, however, they are talking about a 35% increase as well as an extra $1000 in fees. In effect, this is a tax on Georgians seeking an education. While students were involved in fighting fee hikes before talk of such draconian measures (check out the GSU PSA January 2 demo), this threat to education has led to an increase in activity. On March 4, in solidarity with California students fighting similar cuts, students across Georgia will have various actions. Augusta State is organizing a walk out while other campuses are holding outreach events.

A rally is planned for Monday, March 15 at 11am at the Capitol. The rally is being called by University System of Georgia Students for a Quality Education and Georgia Students for Public Education. The rally will include speakers and visits to legislators.