WHEREAS, Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA) students often face challenges and disparities in accessing resources and support within educational institutions,
WHEREAS, There needs to be more culturally relevant resources and support systems designated for SWANA students and by providing the necessary support, SWANA students can thrive, contributing their unique perspectives and enriching our educational community; however, without this support, they can feel unseen and unheard, which can hinder their academic success and perpetuate inequities among SWANA students;
WHEREAS, It is significant for the Student Senate to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to ensure all students, including those from SWANA backgrounds, have equitable access to resources and opportunities and this commitment is not only a deeply held value by the Student Senate but also an approach to teaching and learning that better prepares students for a diverse and global environment; furthermore, Chancellor Sonya Christian stipulated in Vision 2030 that California Community College’s “commitment to set goals for the system to pursue transformational change to ensure institutions genuinely work for all students” [2]; and
WHEREAS, Students need mentors and role models who share similar racial and ethnic backgrounds in academic [3] and career success and there is a lack of resources, dedicated spaces, and cultural events for SWANA students within the California Community College system; Now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges encourage colleges to allocate funding for developing and creating initiatives to promote the academic success, mental support, and overall well-being of SWANA students. This can be demonstrated by creating a designated space for SWANA students to share culture, engage in discourse, and offer peer support and mentorship;
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges increase its efforts to provide visibility and representation of SWANA cultures and stories through curriculum, cultural events, and celebrations to foster a sense of belonging for SWANA students;
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges encourage administrators to curate training and professional development opportunities for faculty, staff, and administrators to enhance cultural competency and sensitivity when serving the needs of SWANA students; and
RESOLVED, That the Student Senate for California Community Colleges promote a culture of inclusivity by supporting, rebuilding, and protecting the SWANA Faculty and Staff Association. SWANA Faculty and Staff Association is provided with an annual budget to coordinate events, curriculum, and resources for SWANA students.
Citations [1] https://www.nocccd.edu/files/eeo-institutional-commitment-to-diversity-report-2021-web75605.pdf
[2]https://www.cccco.edu/About-Us/Vision-2030/outcomes-and-metrics
[3]https://www.diverseeducation.com/demographics/latinx/article/15103618/why-representation-matters-in-the-professoriate