Highline’s 23rd Annual Legislative Breakfast was spearheaded this Wednesday morning by the Associated Students of Highline College (ASHC). The event included several key issues brought forth by Highline student presenters, as well as local government officials with keen ears and open mindsets.

First of the student speakers was Prem Subedi, a University of Washington (UW) alum that has served on a plethora of accessibility advisory boards, committees, and commissions. His impassioned speech was pre-recorded, and included many vital points regarding transportation issues he and other disabled students face. Chief among them was the cost of public transit. 

After sharing that the UW provided all students with an ORCA card with preloaded funds, he explained, “If we had a system that prioritized different types of transportation … this would feel wonderful for me. This would give me freedom.”  While new initiates from Public Safety include an up-to $50 match to deposited Highline-issued ORCA funds, this is a far cry from the system Subedi is referencing.

As Subedi’s speech continued, he further explained the existing limitations of the public transit system. Outside of costly fares, delayed timing was a recurring problem. Not only were delays common, but trip cancellations were constant. Underscored by this point was Subedi’s own arrival time, reaching the breakfast right as his speech ended. Concerns such as housing as well as expansions in programs for single parents were also raised.

While geared towards students, they were not the only population present. Highline faculty and staff made up nearly half of attendees. Those present shared the special insight they received with the day’s events.

Eva Engelhard, advisor for International Student Programs (ISP) was present and ready to listen to problems brought to the surface by student speakers. In years past, the department was able to adapt to ISP students’ needs regarding use of public transport. After hearing from students that US public transit was different from that in their home countries, the department made handouts and resources explaining in detail how to best use Google maps to get to the school. 

State legislators in attendance included representatives Jamila Taylor, Kristine Reeves, and Mia Su-Ling Gregerson while the Senators present were Claire Wilson, Tina Orwall, and Bob Hasegawa. All were attentive during discussions being held, and took active participation in the student roundtable.

Representative Taylor, of the 30th district, shared her role in the day’s proceedings, “For me it’s really about hearing the voices of folks that are impacted by our policies.” Taylors’ district includes the Highline HUB, a satellite campus that hosts additional classes and workshops. 
“Hearing needs around transportation [and] housing, these are challenges communities are facing. These are challenges we can fix as legislators,” said Taylor.

While the issues broached were not settled, legislative members were listening. Whether this was providing personal contacts for students or simply being a hearkening ear, no doubt the power present in advocacy was there.