A Fight for Our Future.

On March 4th, 2010 our state took the lead in making history. Tens of thousands took the initiative, and stood up for their right to a quality education. Simply put, the image was epic; people were out of windows, kids up against fences, watching a people once divided, unite and stand together for a common goal. I've never seen more comradeship from so many different walks of life. It was a group of thousands UNITED walking TOGETHER, arms linked, our voices FINALLY being heard. It was the first time in a long time that people put aside their differences and joined voices to say I WILL STAND UP FOR MY NEIGHBOR. No one cared who you were, what you did, or where you were from; grade school teacher, middle school student, college professor: we were all family on this day. A family angered for the treatment to a family member. Brothers and sisters alike stood up and said NO MORE! On March 4th we became a SINGLE VOICE. Much more powerful then any politician, or any administrator. Today and forever they will hear our voice ring "OUR EDUCATION IS OUR FUTURE!"

But the fight is not over. This is our time, there will be NO second chances. I quote, "The era of procrastination, of half-measures, of soothing and baffling expedients, of delays is coming to its close. In its place we are entering a period of consequences." — Winston S. Churchill

A word from a wise man, and he was right. We can wait no longer. We simply no longer have that luxury. We are entering a critical time in our history. And if we do not act now, there will be dire consequences. Picture America the land of opportunity and hope with absolutely no opportunity and no hope. It is your God given right to a better future. Don't let them steal your dignity. Our dignity cannot be BOUGHT. We don't have to take this lying down. Get up and FIGHT! Get up and fight beside us all, you are not alone. And I can guarantee that I will not stop. And I urge you all to do the same. Make them all do for US as they promised! Take back your EDUCATION. Lets put our STUDENTS FIRST. We are the foundation, without us, they have nothing.

I would like to thank the CFA and the SQE (Students for Quality Education) for giving us a role in helping with March 4th activities. Sherrie Canedo, Clint Hayden, Jessica Rios, Sean Shultz, Hawley Healy, Tiffany Bledsoe, Maureen Loughran, Professor Craig Collins; Great job guys proud to be a part of it. And Professor Ingram for believing that we could make a difference.

-Justin Areola.