Dear Colleague,

Republicans have declared war on programs that assist the poor and underrepresented populations. This week I have also learned that Democratic leaders, including those who call themselves champions of TRIO, are willing to protect the Pell Grant program at the expense of other higher education programs like TRIO and GEAR UP. They plan to rob Peter to pay Paul. The time to act is now.

If we want to solve the debt crisis, cutting programs that help our nation’s most vulnerable citizens is not the answer. As Americans and as humanitarians, we must protect and defend all Americans, regardless of race, gender, economic circumstance, or disability.

It is up to us – the TRIO and GEAR UP community - to act now. Request meetings with each of your Representatives and Senators. Attend local rallies over the July 4^th recess. Start letter writing campaigns. In 2007, we saved 12,000 students by rising up and being heard. This year alone, we lost 25,000 students through cuts recommended by conservatives and carried out by all Members of Congress. We cannot afford to lose more. Our government relations team is here to help, but we can’t do it without you.

Thank you for your support, your ideas, and most of all your commitment to those who may not have a voice.

Arnold Mitchem
President
Council for Opportunity in Education