AB 540 was a victory won by students and educators across the state calling for equitable access to higher education. Their hard work fueled future victories, including the passage of the California Dream Act and institutional support at California colleges and universities! Community organizing also opened up opportunities for state licensure and entrepreneurship for individuals in California, regardless of immigration status.

Since then, an entire generation of undocumented and other eligible students have graduated from California’s colleges and universities and made invaluable contributions that resonate throughout this state. However, thousands more continue to be left out of this law, preventing them from achieving their academic and career goals. All students (regardless of immigration status) should be able to go to any university or college in California and receive the same information and access based on the current AB 540 law.

We recognize that we the people of this state will have to come together to ensure this becomes a reality. Let’s bridge the gaps and create a state where all undocumented students are respected and can access and thrive in higher education.

In commemoration of the 20th year of AB 540, we are aiming to collect 20,540 pledges. Please help us reach this goal by sharing this pledge far and wide!

I am a student who will…

…keep my campus accountable by speaking out;

…be an active participant in conversations about undocumented students.;

...empower and equip other undocumented students to share knowledge and advocate for campus policies that meet their needs; and

...get involved with or start an undocumented student club on your campus.

I am a practitioner/an educator/an ally who will…

…cultivate a welcoming and championing environment for all students, regardless of immigration status;

… proactively stay up-to-date on the latest policies and legislation through trainings, discussions, and other opportunities;

…ensure that website, outreach materials, and syllabi reflect accurate and up-to-date information; and

...review institutional policies on a regular basis.

I am an administrator/a leader who will…

…make sure that the most current and up-to-date information is available throughout our educational system;

...allocate adequate staff and resources for undocumented students at your school;

…encourage dialogue and collaboration between different departments, as well as other schools, and/or statewide systems to institutionalize and sustain support;

...resolve the key discrepancies in the implementation of AB 540/SB 68 and other policies that support undocumented students; and

...encourage my campus to join the over 80 other CA member colleges and universities of the Presidents Alliance on Higher Education & Immigration.

I am a legislator who will…

…hold institutions accountable to upholding the laws that California Legislature passes and

…champion legislation that clarifies and expands the foundations set by AB 540 to ensure education as a fundamental right for all Californians regardless of status.