Legislators Demand Answers from Sonoma State Leadership

When Sonoma State University announced massive program cuts and layoffs in January, many thought that was the beginning of the end of the University, a beloved institution in the state's North Bay.

But union members quickly came together – from faculty to staff to skilled trades – as well as students and community members. We formed a coalition to “Save Our Sonoma” and reached out to leaders who have the ultimate authority over the CSU: state legislators.

At a public forum on Feb. 21, held on campus, legislators grilled CSU management and compelled them to take responsibility for the misguided and catastrophic cuts proposed.

The forum was led by Assemblymember Damon Connolly and state Senate President Pro Temp Mike McGuire. They were joined by Rep. Mike Thompson, Assemblymember Chris Rogers, and Assembly Majority Leader Cecilia Aguiar-Curry. Collectively, the group put the CSU on notice: There will be no state funding approved until management presents an “turnaround” plan that will keep the campus standing for future generations.

Our Voice is Our Power

The legislators took such decisive and quick action to intervene because they heard from workers. Our union membership lets the CSU know our voice matters.  We are planning more actions in the days to come.

Check out the Save Our Sonoma rally held just before the legislative forum, which was livestreamed.

After grilling CSU leadership for their mismanagement of the campus, a panel made up of CSU employees impacted by layoffs and program cuts was invited to share their stories. CSUEU member Dustin Mollo did a great job sharing the essential IT support he provides the campus.