Question 1

What does GENup actually work on policy-wise?

Accepted Answer

GENup maintains an annual policy slate of bills it supports each legislative cycle. Current campaigns include ethnic studies, mental health, menstrual equity, AI literacy, inclusive sexual education, solar panel usage in schools, and climate literacy. In 2026, GENup announced 28 bills on its slate. Past wins include 19 bills signed into law in 2021.

Question 2

Is this just a Berkeley club, or something bigger?

Accepted Answer

GENup is a California-based, nationwide organization with chapters organized by school district. The Berkeley chapter (formerly GENup Collegiate at Berkeley) is the collegiate arm focused on higher education advocacy. Members connect to a national Slack, a 4,000+ student member base, and a broader coalition of student organizations.

Question 3

What would I actually do as a member?

Accepted Answer

Members work across committees: Policy (drafting legislation, tracking bills, liaising with elected officials), Organizing (chapter outreach, rolling out campaigns), Campaigns (creating toolkits and resources), Communications (press releases, blog posts, podcast, email), Media (social media content, video editing), Partnerships (partner org relations), Technology (website, webinars), and Finance (fundraising, grants).

Question 4

Does GENup have real policy impact, or is it mostly symbolic?

Accepted Answer

GENup has had concrete legislative wins. In the 2020-2021 cycle, 19 bills it authored, co-sponsored, or advocated for were signed into law, covering areas like ethnic studies, mental health, and student board member representation. The organization has testified before state committees, worked directly with lawmakers, and been covered by the LA Times, CalMatters, and other outlets.

Question 5

Can Berkeley students join if they are not from California or have no policy background?

Accepted Answer

The application is open to all students. GENup provides toolkits, chapter resources, a national Slack, and training on writing model legislation and advocacy. Members with any background can contribute through committees in media, technology, communications, or organizing.

GENup at Berkeley