The plan was for the 18 community colleges in Missouri to go to the state capital and not only see democracy in action but also remind those in power that the college demographic is suffering due to decisions that are being made by politicians. Busloads of students went to Jefferson City to make human contact with the people who, in some cases, control the future of their educations with a "yes" or "no" vote.

However, representatives could only spare a few moments, legislators were absent, and secretaries were persnickety. Craig C. Bland's assistant even informed a small group of students, "[He’s] not here today. He’s in Kansas City because there is an election. He’ll be in tomorrow, but you won’t." She somehow missed the irony in a group of voters (from his district) showing up at his office door while he was in their hometown grabbing photo ops.

Politicians always make it appear as if the college crowd doesn’t care what happens in the political world. They accuse students of being too lax when it comes to voting, and not being informed enough about things that should concern them. Politicians and celebrities are always trying to get students off the couch and to the polls; that is, until they show interest.

Community college students woke up at ridiculous times to catch buses leaving their campuses to prove that they do care, they are informed, and they do vote. They came to participate and find answers to questions that are important to them as citizens. Shouldn’t any halfway decent government strive to ease its voters' worries? Where does a politician find the balls to run for an office and ask for votes after leaving so many questions unanswered?

Why do so many community college students find owning a car a luxury? Why are so many college students uninsured and forced to go without medical insurance? Why do so many college students live either at home or in crappy apartments? Why are students being forced to live on extremely tight budgets? If money is no longer being put towards financial aid, where is it going? Why do inmates live in better conditions than most community college students? Why are students the only ones not profiting from their educations? And why does no one in power give a damn?

Even with multiple jobs, students are being forced to live off scholarships, grants, and loans because of the cost of education. Instead of doing something about that, our government seems to be making it worse. Instead of explaining why cuts are being made and students are being left out in the cold, politicians are pulling disappearing acts.

Students from all over Missouri showed up at the State Capitol’s doorsteps for Community College Day, seeking answers from the people they put into office and whom they have the power to reelect. Sadly, few answered. Maybe the next time an election rolls around, Representative Bland will happy to hear from any voters, period.

Tell us what you think. Write Spectrum at editor@mcckc.edu.

Copyright 2007 Metropolitan Community College