BEAT is the acronym for Bringing Education and Activism Together and it is a new organization here at San Diego City College that will become active in the fall semester, if approved by the Associate Student Government (ASG).

BEAT is open to students who want to get involved with City College and the San Diego community.

BEAT was founded by Larissa Dorman, a political science teacher at City.

“I want to say that the students are really the ones responsible for putting this group together. The majority of the ideas are from them … They are the inspiration,” said Dorman. “I am just here to facilitate and assist in the process.”

Currently, the members of BEAT are in the process of creating ideas and laying out the floor plans for this dynamic association.

BEAT plans on having teach-ins, concerts, film showings and other campus events at City regarding political and social issues that range from education to environmental concerns.

“This is for everybody. We are an open forum for anyone who wants to share their stories. We respect everyone’s voice,” states Crystal Browning, president of BEAT.

A unique aspect of the group is that there is no hierarchy; everyone involved in BEAT has a voice and is involved in the decision making. Each member is equally important no matter their position in the club.

Since teaching at City College, Dorman recognizes that students are aware of politics and the impact it has on their lives.

“This group has been created to provide an avenue for students to build the community, educate and learn from others, inspire action and bring about change. I believe that this group is incredible because it is inclusive, open-minded and egalitarian,” states Dorman. “All members have a voice and all are welcome.”

Jose Rodriguez, vice president of BEAT, is very optimistic about the new group and is excited to be apart of launching this new association.

“My hope is for it to become a very large socially active group with members all over San Diego. I’d like to have members from all walks of life, all ages, religions and cultures,” said Rodriguez. “There is a great opportunity for an organization like ours to expand and succeed in the current environment. We must take on this challenge.”

For students interested in joining, contact Professor Larissa Dorman at [email protected].