The California State Assembly has approved Bill SB 403 with a 50-3 majority

29/08/2023

August 28th, 2023
Landmark. Historic. Unprecedented.

(Samaj Weekly)- In a historic vote that will be remembered for generations, the California State Assembly has approved Bill SB 403 with a 50-3 majority, in a groundbreaking legislation that bans caste-based discrimination, marking a significant leap towards an equitable and just society. This historic decision reaffirms California’s commitment to eradicating caste discrimination and ensuring equal rights for all its residents.

The passage of Bill SB 403 is the result of dedicated efforts from various quarters, notably the commitment of Senator Aisha Wahab and the relentless advocacy of California’s Ravidassia community. Their collaboration has sparked a groundswell movement that resonated with lawmakers and citizens alike, driving the bill’s successful journey through the State Assembly.

Caste discrimination, a deeply entrenched issue impacting countless lives, finds itself squarely addressed in SB 403. The bill introduces comprehensive measures to counter discrimination across sectors such as education, employment, housing, and public services. By establishing these provisions, California takes a crucial step forward in creating an inclusive environment that values diversity and condemns bias in all its forms.

In addition, we also want to recognize and thank the monumental work done by Equality Labs for leading the effort to mobilize the bill. We also want to thank the bill co-sponsors for coming forward – Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance, Sikh Coalition, Jakara Movement, South Asian Network, Hindus for Caste Equity, Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund, Alphabet Workers Union and Tech Equity Collaborative.

We expect the next administrative steps to complete quickly and the bill will proceed for the Governor’s signature. We are optimistic that his swift approval will cement SB 403 as a monumental law. With the Governor’s endorsement, California will reaffirm its stance as a trailblazer in championing human rights and social progress.