California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill as part of a reparations package apologizing for the state’s role in perpetuating slavery. The bill requires a plaque to be displayed in the state Capitol acknowledging the harms faced by African Americans due to racial prejudice. The apology is part of ongoing efforts to address the legacy of slavery and racial disparities in California.
Although this bill was signed, Newsom vetoed other bills sought by reparations supporters, including one that would have created a process for Black families to file claims for property seized through discriminatory motives. Advocates expressed disappointment in the veto and called for continued efforts to push for meaningful reparations legislation. Despite the setbacks, Newsom emphasized the importance of addressing historic injustices faced by Black Californians and committed to working towards lasting justice and equity.
The signing of the apology bill marks a significant step forward in acknowledging and addressing the impact of slavery and systemic racism in California. However, advocates are calling for more substantial reparations measures to be enacted to provide reparative justice for Black communities. The state’s actions are being closely watched as part of a national conversation on addressing historical injustices and systemic racism.
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Photo credit calmatters.org
