Equity Center

The Equity Center at Cerritos College is a vibrant and welcoming hub dedicated to supporting equity-focused programs such as the LGBTQ+ Program, UndocuFalcons Scholars Program, and Justice Scholars.

Its core mission is to promote social and academic justice by fostering a strong sense of community and belonging among all students. Through culturally responsive advocacy, student-centered services, and inclusive programming, the Equity Center creates a supportive environment where students from diverse backgrounds can thrive both personally and academically. Whether it’s through peer support, educational workshops, or access to vital resources, the center empowers students to succeed and embrace their unique identities.

Services Offered

The Equity Center offers a range of dedicated programs and spaces designed to support the diverse needs of our student community. Each service aims to create a welcoming and empowering environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally.

LGBTQ+ Program:

This program provides comprehensive support and resources tailored to LGBTQ+ students[LA4] . Beyond offering a safe and inclusive space, it organizes workshops, advocacy opportunities, and peer support groups. For instance, the program has hosted monthly discussions on identity and mental health, and facilitates access to counseling and healthcare referrals. Students are encouraged to engage with the program to build community and celebrate their identities proudly.

UndocuFalcons Scholars Program:

Focused on undocumented and DACA[LA5]  students, the UndocuFalcons Scholars Program offers vital resources such as scholarships, book vouchers, immigration legal consultations, and emergency food. The program also organizes workshops on navigating college as an undocumented student and connects participants with community partners for additional support. Many students have benefited Wi-Fi hotspots to ensure uninterrupted access to education.

Living Learning Center:

Situated adjacent to the Equity Center, the Living Learning Center serves as an extended hub for student collaboration and engagement. It features group study rooms, event spaces, and lounges designed to foster connection and academic success. The center regularly hosts tutoring sessions, peer mentoring, and cultural events that complement the Equity Center’s mission of inclusivity and empowerment.

Events and Activities

The Equity Center hosts a variety of vibrant and inclusive events throughout the academic year designed to build community, empower students, and provide enriching experiences both on and off campus. These events create a welcoming environment where students can connect, learn, and grow.

  • Meet & Greets: At the start of each semester, students are invited to join informal meet-and-greet sessions where they can meet program staff and peers, ask questions, and learn about upcoming events. These sessions foster a welcoming atmosphere for new and returning students alike.
  • Gaming Hours: Weekly gaming sessions encourage students to unwind, bond, and build friendships in a relaxed, fun environment. These casual gatherings often feature popular multi-player games and provide snacks to keep the energy up.
  • Field Trips: The Equity Center programs provide unique educational opportunities beyond campus. For example, in October 2024, the LGBTQ+ Program participated in the Models of Pride Youth Summit at the LA LGBT Center, gaining exposure to national LGBTQ+ advocacy and leadership. Similarly, in April 2025, the UndocuFalcons Scholars Program Scholars attended the Empowering Leaders Symposium at Cal State Long Beach, focusing on leadership development and community activism for undocumented students. These experiences broaden students' perspectives and empower them to become change-makers.
  • Art & Allyship Workshops: Creative workshops are held regularly, offering students a chance to express their identities through art and engage in meaningful discussions about allyship and social justice. Past sessions have included mural painting, zine making, and storytelling circles.
  • Social Mixers: Seasonal social mixers provide fun, themed events where students can celebrate diverse identities, build friendships, and enjoy music, food, and performances. Examples include Pride Month celebrations, cultural heritage socials, and end-of-semester gatherings.
  • Snacks & Refreshments: Understanding the importance of nourishment, the Equity Center ensures all events provide snacks and refreshments, creating a warm and inviting space that encourages participation and community building.

 

Affiliated Programs

The Equity Center works in close collaboration with a range of affiliated programs designed to support student success, leadership, and identity development. These programs go beyond academics,they empower students to build community, access crucial resources, and grow as leaders.

 P.R.I.D.E. Scholars

The P.R.I.D.E. (Pursuing Respect, Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity) Scholars Program is a dedicated support system for LGBTQ+ students at Cerritos College. It offers mentorship, academic guidance, and social events that create a strong sense of community and belonging. Through this program, students have access to specialized workshops, identity-affirming activities, and connections to external LGBTQ+ organizations. P.R.I.D.E. Scholars often take the lead in campus-wide awareness campaigns and participate in leadership conferences throughout the year.

UndocuFalcons Scholars Program Scholars

This program provides a safe and supportive environment for undocumented students and those from mixed-status families. In addition to essential resources like scholarships, book vouchers, legal consultations, and food assistance, the program offers workshops on navigating higher education as an undocumented student. Events such as UndocuWeek of Action and the annual Empowering Leaders Symposium provide students with opportunities to advocate for immigrant rights, develop leadership skills, and build supportive networks.

Equity Center Culture

The Equity Center fosters a culture rooted in inclusion, respect, empowerment, and community care. It functions as more than just a physical space it’s a home base for students who often find themselves navigating multiple challenges related to identity, access, or systemic inequities.

Students are encouraged to show up as their full selves, knowing they will be met with understanding and affirmation. The staff at the Equity Center are not only advocates but also active mentors and allies who help students navigate their educational journeys. The center frequently incorporates art, storytelling, activism, and culturally relevant programming to create an environment where every student feels seen, supported, and celebrated.

Whether you're joining a support circle, attending a workshop, or just stopping by for a snack and a moment of rest, the Equity Center is designed to be a space where students feel safe, valued, and empowered.

Living Learning Center

The Living Learning Center is a dynamic extension of the Equity Center, designed to foster collaboration, academic growth, and student-led learning in an inclusive, community-oriented space. Conveniently located adjacent to the Equity Center, the LLC offers a welcoming environment where students can study, connect, and thrive both academically and socially.

Key Features & Offerings:

  • Collaborative Study Spaces: The LLC provides flexible seating, whiteboards, and group-friendly areas ideal for study sessions, tutoring, and project work. Students often use the space for exam prep, peer-to-peer academic support, or quiet reflection time.
  • Workshops & Meetings: The LLC regularly hosts workshops on topics like time management, resume writing, and financial literacy. It also serves as a meeting space for student organizations and equity based initiatives.
  • Resource Access: Students can access laptops, textbooks, calculators, and other academic materials. Many students benefit from this resource-sharing model, especially those who need support outside typical office hours.
  • Cultural & Community Events: The space is also used for affinity group gatherings, film screenings, open mics, and cultural celebrations. For example, during Latinx Heritage Month and Black History Month, the LLC hosts interactive events led by students in the Puente and Umoja programs.
  • Peer Support & Mentorship: Students often connect informally with mentors or peers in the LLC, creating organic support networks that enhance the college experience. Whether someone is looking for advice or just someone to talk to, the LLC helps build those meaningful connections.

Photos of Events in Space

To showcase the activities and vibrant community within the Equity Center, photos of past events are available. Please ensure that photo releases have been obtained for any individuals featured in the images.

Partnerships

  • Falcon's Nest Snack Bar: Collaborates with the Equity Center to provide students with accessible food options.
  • Community Organizations: Partners with local groups to offer additional resources and support for students.