California will officially apologize for state’s role in slavery and discrimination

SUMMARY

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a series of bills addressing the state's alleged role in slavery and 'racial discrimination', including a formal apology for its participation in perpetuating slavery. In a statement, Newsom acknowledged California's responsibility for promoting and allowing the institution of slavery and its lasting legacy of racial disparities. The bills signed aim to combat these disparities by increasing access to literature in prisons, addressing employment and college financial aid discrimination, and tackling mental health and food deserts.Newsom was joined by the state’s Legislative Black Caucus, with Chair Lori Wilson emphasizing that the reparations effort is "multi-year." Wilson praised the bills as laying a "meaningful foundation" for addressing historical injustices. The move comes just a day after Newsom vetoed a bill seeking to help Black families reclaim property lost to eminent domain, citing implementation concerns.