Governor Gavin Newsome | Official website
Governor Gavin Newsom, alongside members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), has signed a series of bills aimed at addressing racial discrimination and advancing issues important to Black Californians. One of the key actions was signing AB 3089, which includes a formal apology for California's historical role in slavery.
"As we confront the lasting legacy of slavery, I’m profoundly grateful for the efforts put forward by Chair Wilson and the members of the California Legislative Black Caucus. The State of California accepts responsibility for the role we played in promoting, facilitating, and permitting the institution of slavery, as well as its enduring legacy of persistent racial disparities," said Governor Newsom.
The newly signed legislation encompasses various measures that address criminal justice reforms, civil rights, and education among other issues. Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson expressed gratitude towards Governor Newsom: "As Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus, I am deeply grateful to Governor Newsom for signing this critical set of Reparations Bills."
Assemblymember Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer emphasized the importance of these actions: "This is a monumental achievement born from a two-year academic study of the losses suffered by Black Americans in California due to systemic bigotry and racism."
Key bills include SB 1089 by Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas requiring advance notice before grocery store and pharmacy closures to address food deserts; AB 1815 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber providing stronger protections against discrimination based on race-associated traits; AB 2319 by Assemblymember Lori Wilson enforcing anti-bias training compliance in hospitals; AB 1986 by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan promoting access to literature in prisons; and AB 3089 issuing a formal apology for chattel slavery.
Additional measures signed into law aim at tackling employment discrimination, increasing preschool access, providing financial aid for foster youth, and establishing "California Black-Serving Institutions" with SB 1348.
Governor Newsom has previously taken steps to address racial disparities through expanded healthcare access, child care programs, financial relief initiatives, and significant reforms in criminal justice. His administration also established new statewide programs such as universal transitional kindergarten and college savings accounts for all children.
These efforts are part of ongoing work to recognize historical injustices and make amends for past harms. Once representatives from all branches sign it, California will join other states that have issued formal apologies for their roles in slavery.
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