If you or someone you love graduated from a University of California campus, you know the power of public higher education. Maybe you walked UC Berkeley’s paths, studied in a UC San Diego lab, or cheered at a UCLA graduation. You have seen what these institutions can do. They open doors, elevate communities and push the boundaries of knowledge.

But that legacy is now under threat — and California needs your voice.

For nearly 160 years, the UC system has been the engine of California’s progress. It has trained our doctors and teachers, driven innovation, and lifted millions of low-income and first-generation students into the middle class. Now, it is facing an unprecedented assault from the second Trump administration.

Federal investigations are targeting campuses like Berkeley and UCLA, questioning admissions practices, and threatening the diversity that makes UC strong. Equity and inclusion programs are under attack. Research funding is at risk, especially on campuses where students protest. Billions have already been slashed from national science budgets, crippling labs, and threatening breakthroughs.

On top of that, sweeping tariffs are inflating the cost of lab equipment, housing construction and basic supplies. Budget pressures are mounting. UC leaders have implemented hiring freezes and paused critical projects. Faculty are being poached by universities abroad. Students are bearing the brunt.

This is not just a financial squeeze — it is an assault on the very principles that define public higher education: access, opportunity, inquiry and free expression.

The consequences will reach far beyond the classroom.

Whether you are a parent saving for your child’s future, a small business owner hiring UC graduates, a biotech executive depending on UC research, or a graduate yourself, these things matter to us all. UC does not just serve students. It serves all of California.

UC research powers industries from agriculture to clean energy. Its doctors anchor hospitals across the state. Its startups fuel economic growth. Its campuses are often the largest employers in their regions. Weakening UC weakens California.

We are at an inflection point that requires us to act — not just as voters, but as a statewide community.

Alumni can contact their representatives, share how UC changed their lives, and demand protection for funding, research, and academic freedom. Those with means can support scholarships or vulnerable programs.

Business leaders should speak out about UC’s value to industry — reminding lawmakers that a strong UC system means a strong economy.

Parents can attend town halls and ask how elected officials will protect access, affordability, and freedom from political interference.

Even if you have never stepped foot on a UC campus, you have benefited from its ripple effects. Public higher education is a common good. When it thrives, California thrives.

The University of California was built by and for the people of this state. It is a promise: no matter what your background or bank account, everyone deserves access to the best public education in the world.

That promise is now in danger. But it does not have to be lost.

We have protected UC before — during budget crises, tuition fights and political showdowns. We can do it again.

UC belongs to all of us. It is unique among public universities nationwide because the California Constitution grants it special protection, ensuring autonomy and shielding it from direct political interference.

Let us make sure it stays that way.

Tom Debley is a former University of California public affairs officer. He is retired and lives in Walnut Creek.