Patricia Gomez

  • signed AB 1460 CSU Petition 2020-07-22 07:33:55 -0700

    AB 1460 CSU Petition

    We, the undersigned, support Assembly Member Shirley Weber's AB 1460 to enact legislation that would require California State University students at all 23 CSU campuses to complete one 3-unit course in ethnic studies in order to graduate.

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  • signed AB 331 Petition 2020-06-24 19:43:05 -0700
    I teach ethnic studies for California community colleges. There is insurmountable evidence that ethnic studies results in positive outcomes and higher graduation rates for all students. I have witnessed students consciousnesses light up like a switch as if suddenly awakened and feeling as if a void has been filled. Students see themselves at the center of the curriculum and their familial/ancestral contributions motivates them to learn more about their histories/herstories. They begin to push, strive and thirst for more knowledge. They begin to accept themselves as “good students” who have validating experiences and the doubt of seeking a higher education becomes resolved. Ethnic Studies is life changing!

    AB 331 Petition

    I support AB 331 which will add a course of ethnic studies to be a high school graduation requirement beginning the school year of 2023-2024.

    California has one of the largest and most diverse student populations in the nation. Ethnic minorities account for over 71 percent of the student population, with more than 90 languages spoken in District schools.

    Given California’s annual increase in diversity, it is important that students build knowledge of the various racial and ethnic groups in our state. Incorporating ethnic studies courses into standard high school curriculum is a means to accomplish this. Ethnic studies, promotes respect and understanding among races, supports student success and teaches critical thinking skills. Additionally the course provides students with the opportunity to learn about their respective culture in the context of California’s history.

    Requiring ethnic studies to be taught in high schools is an integral part of cultivating a classroom environment that is accepting of diversity. It is vital for young people to learn about their history, it is also important for them to feel like they can contribute to their communities in positive ways. AB 331 will help close the achievement gap by reducing student truancy and student enrollment, reduce drop-out rates, and better prepare Californian youth to be college prepared and career ready.

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