Despite COVID-19 restrictions, college students and their supporters still found ways to speak up at the Minnesota Capitol this year. One big piece was the “Student Voices” campaign, with about 290 students connecting with their legislators. The focus was on students meeting over zoom with their legislators and championing new State Grant program spending. Students also recorded videos that were shared on social media.

Students shared their personal views, speaking up on how the State Grant alleviates barriers during the challenging pandemic and advances educational equity. Read more about how the experience worked for students and see some of their videos.

Other advocacy work happened this session through email, with more than 700 notes written to legislators asking them to do more and thanking them for the program.

If you helped speak up about need-based grants for college students this session, despite all the pandemic challenges, thank you! And if you didn’t get a chance this year, no problem — there’s always the next legislative session. The Council will be sharing new opportunities for advocating with Minnesota policymakers.