Readers React: UC’s indefensible tuition-hike proposal

To the editor: Not only are the proposed 5% annual tuition increases for University of California students a disgrace, but the whole education funding system in this country is indefensible. (“UC proposes steady tuition hikes,” Nov. 6)

I believe all education — including graduate school — should be free, supported by taxpayers.

If it is only those few who can afford tuition or load themselves with debt, what sort of representation is this of opportunity for all? It seems Thomas Jefferson was wrong: All men (and women) are not created equal — or at least given the chance to demonstrate their full capabilities.

Peggy Aylsworth Levine, Santa Monica

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To the editor: A UC education needs to be affordable to California residents. It does not need to be affordable to out-of-state and foreign students. Why not raise tuition by a larger amount for those students and give California residents a break?

Californians should benefit from the increased funding from taxes courtesy of Proposition 30. If that is not sufficient, the state needs to increase funding.

It should not be necessary to increase tuition for those who are trying to get a good education.

Lynda Estes, Winnetka

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