3 months ago
UC-DAVIS, CA - For a second day, loud protests could be heard on the UC Davis campus. Demonstrators were upset about a decision by UC Regents to raise fees at the University of California by 32 percent.
As sign carrying, chanting students and faculty marched around the campus, the last of the protesters arrested Thursday night were released from jail in Woodland.
52 people were charged with failing to disperse when they occupied Mark Hall, the school's administration building.
Shouting slogans such as "Whose university? Our university!", the marchers made their way to the Activities and Recreation Center for a meeting with school officials.
After about 15 minutes, demonstrators quieted down and accused top administrators of getting salary increases while students and teachers are dealing with classes being cut and higher fees.
Vice Chancellor of Students Affairs Fred Wood told the crowd of about 400 people that "salaries of people across the campus by the market. They are set relative to people in other positions. It's supply and demand just like all economics."
Wood also explained that university staff are taking furloughs and pay cuts. He said those who make more have taken bigger hits.
"The whole system is not listening to the students," said sophomore Dorian Mastrogany, one of the protestors who spent the night in jail. "They're hiking up our fees and I'm not seeing a better education for myself. I feel like what I'm receiving is less lackluster. And our professors are concered about keeping their jobs."
Administrators asked students to join them when they go to the state capitol to lobby legislators about cutting the UC budget.
Students also demanded that school administrators drop charges against students and faculty members who were arrested.
Wood responded it's not up to him. They also heard the same thing from UCD Police Chief Annette Spicuzza, who said the decision on whether the protesters' cases go forward lies with the Yolo County District Attorney's Office.
Students were uphappy with administrators' responses. Just before they left the meeting, one protester said, "We need your help. We need your support. You aren't talking to us. You are talking at us and we don't need that!"
By Karen Massie, kmassie@news10.net
News10/KXTV
