Local

By Tanu Henry, Antonio Ray Harvey and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

Former foster youth living in the city and county of San Francisco are eligible to apply for a Guaranteed Income Pilot Program that will pay them $1200 a month for 18 months.

“Guaranteed income programs help level the playing field and will give these former foster youth the support and resources they need to pursue their California dream,” said Gov. Gavin Newsom in a statement when he announced the program November 3.

To support the program, the state awarded San Francisco $3,439,090. Another Guaranteed Income Pilot program will be launched in Ventura County with a $1,538,758 state investment.

“These pilots, through the Department of Social Services, will provide unconditional, individual, regular cash payments intended to disrupt poverty, advance equity, and support the basic needs of recipients,” said a press release from Newsom’s office.

San Franciscans who participate in the program will receive counseling and the state will measure the impact of the program on their lives and their eligibility for other public benefits.

“Transitioning out of the foster care system can be incredibly challenging for many of our youth, and this sustained unconditional income over 18 months will help systems-involved youth pursue their hopes and dreams. In doing so, our goal is to disrupt the cycle of poverty and advance a more equitable future for former foster youth,” said San Francisco Human Services Agency Deputy Director of Policy, Planning, and Public Affairs Susie Smith.

“This is an amazing opportunity to break the cycle of poverty experienced by many young adults transitioning out of foster care,” Smith added.

By Tanu Henry, Antonio Ray Harvey and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

The California Faculty Association (CFA), the union representing faculty at California State University (CSU) schools has voted to authorize a strike if it cannot reach a deal with the 23-campus system’s administration.

CFA represents approximately 29,000 professors, lecturers, coaches, and other faculty across the state.

“Cal State voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike, if necessary,” said Charles Toombs, a professor and former chairperson of Africana Studies at San Diego State University (SDSU) and the union’s president, during a virtual press conference Oct 30. “Members are emphatic that low pay, growing workloads, and systematic inequalities are not sustainable.

The union pushed for 12% across-the-board increases this fiscal year, but CSU offered 12% over the next three years. When CFA refused to consider a multi-year offer, the CSU offered a one-year GSI of 5%. CFA then declared an impasse within 40 minutes of receiving this offer.

“We are still moving through the statutory process. CFA members plan on bringing our demands and solidarity to trustees and new Chancellor Mildred García at the November 7 CSU Board of Trustees meeting in Long Beach,” read a press release from CFA.

“CSU management says they can’t afford our re-opener proposals, but a CFA fiscal analysis shows otherwise. The CSU has been hoarding billions of dollars in reserves instead of investing in faculty and staff who work directly with our students. Their investment in administrative personnel is increasing while their investment in instructional support continues to shrink,” it continued.

In the fall of 2022, 18,308 Black or African American students (4.0%) were enrolled in the CSU system. Overall, the CSU system. The CSU system is comprised of 23 universities with nearly 500,000 students.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

Diwali is one of the major Asian Indian religious festivals observed in Hinduism, Sikhism and Jainism. It celebrates the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.

Known as “The Festival of Lights’ it is celebrated globally across diverse religions and cultures. This year, Diwali will fall on November 12, and for most who observe it, celebrations will last five days. The date of the celebration changes every year because it is based on the Hindu lunar calendar.

The celebration of the holiday varies depending on regional customs and traditions. Among Hindus, the most widespread custom is the lighting of ‘diyas’, small lamps filled with oil, on the night of the new moon to invite the presence of Lakshimi, the goddess of wealth. In Northern India, the festival also celebrates the royal homecoming of Rama to the city of Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, the 10-headed king of the demons.

California native Happy Uppal spoke with California Black Media (CBM) and shared how her family celebrated Diwali when they lived in India and how it has changed for them since coming to the US.

“Speaking to my family about the holiday, Diwali meant we were going to have a lot of food, go to festival shows, and do fireworks. We used to light candles around our entire house. It was something my family looked forward to every year in India because they celebrated a lot. The holiday meant that they got to be with family and celebrate our culture at the same time. It was a time of new beginnings and cleansing of the past,” said Uppal.

With around 902,621 people who identify as Asian Indian, California has the largest population of Sikhs, Hindus and Jains in the United States.

Traditionally, the first day of Diwali, known as Dhanteras, is dedicated to cleaning homes and purchasing small items of gold. Lakshimi is the focus of worship on this day. The second day, called Naraka Chatrudashi or Choti Diwali, prayers are offered for the souls of ancestors. On the third day, Lakshimi Puja, families seek blessings from Lakshimi to ensure their prosperity, light candles, fireworks, and visit temples. On the fourth day, known as Goverdhan Puja, merchants perform religious ceremonies and open new account books. The final day called Bhai Dooj, celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.

To the Jains, the holiday has a different meaning. For them, Diwali is the day when the last of the Jain Tirthankaras, Lord Mahavira, attained nirvana, a spiritual state characterized by the transcendence of mortal limitations and obstacles, and the attainment of infinite knowledge and enlightenment. Lord Mahavira established the dharma followed by the Jains worldwide.

For the Sikhs, Diwali is a story of the struggle for freedom. It celebrates the victory of the sixth guru, Guru Hargobind, from the designs of Emperor Jahangir, who had imprisoned him and 52 other princes with him, in 1619. Guru Hargobind refused to leave the prison for freedom until he was able to bring all of the princes with him.

“The celebration is minimal in the United States unless you go to a temple,” said Uppal. “Not as many families celebrate as much as homes in India. Celebrations usually still include some sort of special sweet dish and lighting of a few candles.”

Along with the sweets, Samosas are very popular dishes to enjoy during Diwali celebrations. Aloo Bonda, a potato stuffing inside of a crispy coating of gram flour is another favorite amongst observers.

The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) in Southern California hosts one the most elaborate Diwali celebrations. This spiritual, volunteer-driven organization is dedicated to improving society through individual growth by promoting Hindu values of faith, unity and selfless service. The center sits on 20 acres and includes 164,000 square feet of building space. On Diwali, the building is illuminated with multi-colored light shows, fireworks, lamps music and festive energy. Their Diwali celebration will take place on Nov. 10-13. The “Diwali Light and Sound Spectacular” takes place on the Nov. 11, 12, and 13, from 6-8 p.m. — with shows every thirty minutes.

During a time in the world where the darkness seems to be more prevalent daily, taking the time to acknowledge the beauty and hope light brings is what Diwali is all about,” Uppal said.

Here are additional Diwali celebrations to look out for if you are interested in experiencing the festival of renewal and light.

Diwali at the Pomeroy Center

Saturday, Nov. 18 from 3-7pm

207 Skyline Boulevard San Francisco, CA 94132

The event includes arts and crafts for children under 12, professional Indian Dance Performances and a buffet dinner with ticket purchase.

Diwali Fest 2023 – Festival of Lights

Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Art of Living Dome

948 West Adams Boulevard, Los Angeles, United States

This event will have all the aspects of celebration which include lighting Lamps (diyas/tealight candles provided), an opportunity to make a

personal Sankalpa (deep wish) and offering. Lighting lamps and Dance performances, meditation and Indian cuisine.

All are welcome and anyone who comes for the event can witness a traditional Hindu ritual called the puja.

This California Black Media report was supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library.

LOS ANGELES, CA — Covered California kicked off its 2024 open-enrollment period at the iconic Los Angeles State Historic Park and Roundhouse Bridge, a public space that serves some of the most vulnerable communities in the state, with roots that connect back to the early history of the city and region.

California Black Women’s Health Project Chief Executive Officer Sonya Young Aadam was among those who joined Covered California Executive Director Jessica Altman to launch open enrollment and highlight how record financial assistance are bridging the gap between uninsured Californians and access to affordable, name brand health insurance coverage.

The event marked the start of the 11th year of Covered California offering affordable, name brand health care coverage and financial assistance to Californians under the Affordable Care Act. Open enrollment, which began Nov. 1 and runs through Jan. 31, 2024, is the time of year when Californians can sign up for health insurance or make changes to their existing plans.

“There has never been more financial assistance available to help Californians pay for health care coverage than there will be in 2024,” said Jessica Altman. “We want every uninsured Californian to know that affordable and quality health care coverage is available and within closer reach than ever before.

Bridging the Gap

The theme for this year’s campaign, “Bridging the Gap,” emphasizes the role Covered California plays in connecting uninsured Californians with affordable, high-quality health insurance. Covered California is also currently serving as a bridge for those who are no longer eligible for Medi-Cal.

With the end of the federal continuous coverage requirement in March, Medi-Cal began its year-long renewal and redetermination process for more than 15 million members in April. To help those deemed no longer eligible Medi-Cal coverage, Covered California launched its auto-enrollment program to eliminate gaps in health care coverage and help ensure a seamless transition from Medi-Cal to a health insurance plan offered by Covered California.

Bridging the Gap in Health Disparities 

This year’s theme also reflects Covered California’s commitment to bridging the gap in health disparities. Enrolling consumers in health insurance is critically important, and advancing health equity to ensure that California’s diverse populations have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive is also paramount. Covered California’s new Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Monica Soni, brings passion and enthusiasm to her role of advancing health equity.

“Our guiding mission is to ensure that once you open the door to having insurance, you also cross the threshold into receiving accessible care,” Dr. Soni said. “Coverage is critical, but coverage doesn’t equate to access. We want everyone with coverage to have a meaningful relationship with a primary care provider and receive lifesaving and life-sustaining, free preventive care. The road to wellness for you and your family begins there.”

Community Outreach

During this year’s open-enrollment, Covered California is partnering with organizations throughout the state to bring health resources to the community. In Los Angeles, this Saturday, Nov. 11, Covered California will participate in the African American Men’s Wellness Walk at Rancho Cienega Recreation Center, where in addition to health screenings, two informational sessions with Dr. Soni will be presented at 9 and 10:15 am. The sessions will discuss healthcare, open enrollment and Medi-Cal, and be moderated by KJLH Radio on-air personality Adai Lamar.

Signing Up for Coverage Is Easy

Consumers can learn more about their options by visiting CoveredCA.com, where they can easily find out if they qualify for financial help and see the coverage options in their area.

All they need to do is enter their household income, ZIP code, household size and the number of people who need coverage and their ages into the calculator on Covered California’s homepage.

In addition to visiting CoveredCA.com, those interested in learning more about their coverage options can also:

• Get free and confidential assistance over the phone, in a variety of languages, from a certified enroller.
• Have a certified enroller call them and help them for free.
• Call Covered California at (800) 300-1506.

 About Covered California

Covered California is the state’s health insurance marketplace, where Californians can find affordable, high-quality insurance from top insurance companies. Covered California is the only place where individuals who qualify can get financial assistance on a sliding scale to reduce premium costs. Consumers can then compare health insurance plans and choose the plan that works best for their health needs and budget. Depending on their income, some consumers may qualify for the low-cost or no-cost Medi-Cal program.

Covered California is an independent part of the state government whose job is to make the health insurance marketplace work for California’s consumers. It is overseen by a five-member board appointed by the governor and the Legislature. For more information about Covered California, please visit www.CoveredCA.com.

By Solomon O. Smith | California Black Media

Last week, the Pasadena community lost a towering symbol of leadership and courage, Joe C. Hopkins. A lawyer, activist, publisher, husband and father, Hopkins passed away on Oct. 31 after decades of dedicated service to the community.

Hopkins was a prominent presence in “Dena,” the local nickname for the Pasadena/Altadena area. A resident for over 40 years, Hopkins, and his wife Ruthie, are deeply embedded in their local community, establishing meaningful relationships with people from diverse backgrounds. Their influence extended beyond Pasadena, inspiring and shaping California’s Black political and social circles in numerous ways.

Hopkins was born in Altus, Oklahoma. He relocated to California in 1967, settling in Altadena in 1969. He earned his Juris Doctorate from Glendale University College of Law and in 1982 he began his legal practice which he later moved to Pasadena in 1986.

Hopkins was a man of conviction who fearlessly defended what he believed in. It was his strength of character and clarity of perspective that made him an effective leader.

Hopkins once held the position of president of the West Coast Black Publishers Association and was the president emeritus of the San Gabriel Valley Black Business Association. He founded the Pasadena/Altadena Black Lawyers Association and headed the Pasadena Black Expo from 1990-1992. He started the Pasadena/Altadena Journal, the first and only Black publication in “the Valley,” a region located north of Los Angeles that spans several other San Fernando Valley cities, including Burbank, Studio City, Glendale and Sherman Oaks.

Hopkins’ accomplishments have been acknowledged numerous times: He received the Appreciation for Outstanding Contributions in Business from the Altadena NAACP Branch in 1990, the Citizen of the Year Award from Omega Psi Phi Fraternity in 1992 and served as the Community Grand Marshall of the Pasadena Black History Parade in 2000. In 2006, he was awarded a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from Congressman Adam B. Schiff (D-CA-30). Additionally, he has been honored with numerous special recognitions from various city, state and national organizations.

In 2018, Hopkins and his wife were honored as civil rights pioneers and “Unsung Heroes” by the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC). The award was presented by Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena).

In a statement following Hopkins’ passing, Holden said, “My life and the lives of many other people are forever changed by the impact of Joe Hopkins and his wife Ruthie. I will miss Joe’s fearless leadership and unrelenting dedication to community.”

Hopkins’ personal achievements were substantial, and their enduring impact makes his loss deeply felt by the greater Pasadena community.

Sen. Anthony Portantino (D-Burbank) recalls being inspired by Hopkins’ writing in his book, “I will not Apologize,” a collection of his opinion pieces many consider to be the core of his beliefs.

After reading his book Portantino had to meet the man behind the “no nonsense” words. Hopkins was not easily impressed and quizzed Portantino about whether he read his book. They bonded over that conversation and their mutual desire to create a bridge between higher education in California and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Together, they encouraged leaders and educators from UCLA to establish the Summer Institute for Emerging Managers and Leaders in 2012. The program’s purpose is to “increase the diversity of graduate students enrolled in the UC business schools.

The program continues to diversify leadership in California graduate schools.

“We connected on a friendship level and continued to talk policy and as the world changed, we kept talking to each other,” said Portantino. “The community has lost a special person, a great dad and a tremendous leader.”

Condolences have been extended to the family from the mayor of Pasadena, Victor Gordo, and other community leaders offering comfort during their time of bereavement.

Hopkins’ son, Yusef Olaitan-Hopkins, remembers his father as more than a political leader, entrepreneur or civil rights leader. He cherishes intimate memories of his father as a caring parent, selflessly dedicated to his family and community. According to Olaitan-Hopkins, the family is overwhelmed by the community’s expression of sympathy.

Hopkins, according to his son, was always ready to defend others with his knowledge of the law, leadership or his presence.

“One of the things my dad used to say was ‘find a good fight and get into it’,” said Yusef. “He was going to do this on his own terms.”

Hopkins’ legacy extends beyond the publications, books, and organizations he started and led. It endures through the loving family he leaves behind, including his granddaughter Ife Olaitan, a social worker, therapist and the mother of his only great-grandchild. For Olaitan it was a privilege to grow up knowing her grandfather and having him get to know his great-granddaughter. She recalls how her grandparents inspired her to follow her own path and do “what’s right,” something she is passing down to her child.

“He was always on the side of fighting for what was right and what was just,” said Olaitan. “He was a man with a stance, and he loved a good fight.”

Hopkins is survived by his wife Ruthie, three sons: Yusef, Omar, and Jamal, as well as seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Messages of condolence to the Hopkins family can be sent to pasadenajournalweb@gmail.com.

Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson Presents $1 Million for the IE Black Equity Fund CEO of The California Endowment, Dr. Bob Ross, Receives Lifetime Commitment to IE Award

RIVERSIDE, CA— The Inland Empire Community Foundation (IECF) and the Black Equity Initiative of the Inland Empire (BEI-IE) announced that the IE Black Equity Fund raised more than $6 million since launching in 2020 at a celebration event in Riverside. The event, held on November 3, 2023, marked a significant milestone for the Fund and its mission to support nonprofit organizations and initiatives that are led by – and serve – the Black community in the Inland Empire. Attendees included nonprofits, philanthropists, funders, and local officials committed to fostering Black community empowerment in the region.

In a stirring message before 200 guests, Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson announced the allocation of $1 million to the Fund, bringing the total to $6 million to help close persistent equity gaps in education, health, employment, and housing for the region’s Black community.

“I’m thrilled to witness the outpouring of support and enthusiasm for the IE Black Equity Fund,” said Pastor Sam Casey, BEI-IE Co-Founder, and Executive Director at Congregations Organized for Prophetic Change, (C.O.P.E.) “Remarkably, we exceeded our original $5 million goal. The $6 million we’ve raised is a testament to the community’s support of providing critical resources that strengthen the capacity of our organizations. As we celebrate this important milestone, we also know that we must remain vigilant on our journey towards progress.

Dr. Bob Ross, President and CEO of The California Endowment (TCE), was also the program’s guest speaker, who encouraged each guest to honor the past sacrifices of others and give back. Under Dr. Ross’s leadership, TCE was the first organization to invest $1 million into the Fund. Leaders from IECF and BEI-IE also presented Dr. Ross with a “Lifetime Commitment to the IE” award.

Grantmaking

The Fund’s impact has been felt in the region. It recently granted $1.027 million to 71 organizations and fiscally-sponsored projects in its second round of grantmaking. Since its inception, the Fund has made grants totaling $1.7 million to promote racial equity in the region.

New Research

To better understand the issues affecting the Inland Empire’s Black community which comprises 7.3% of the region’s population, and identify where funding might carry the most impact, the IE Black Equity Fund partnered with Mapping Black California to publish the “Black Equity Fund Report.”

Building a Culture of Philanthropy

The Fund has raised $6 million thanks to investments from the California Endowment, the Weingart Foundation, the James Irvine Foundation, Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson, and support from dozens of corporate and institutional donors. The Fund has also been strengthened by numerous individual donations.

“This is a terrific milestone for the Inland Empire and our Black-led nonprofits,” said Brie Griset Smith, Sr. VP of Charitable Giving at IECF. “We are so appreciative of those who gave generously to support the Black Equity Fund at IECF, and to BEI-IE who created this inspiring opportunity to benefit our region.”

In partnership with IE Funders Alliance and IECF, the Fund was created by The Black Equity Initiative – Inland Empire (BEI-IE), a coalition of nonprofit leaders whose work is focused on ending systemic racism and building political and economic power for the Black community in Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

For more information about the IE Black Equity Fund and its mission, visit iegives.org/ieblackequityfund. For more information about BEI-IE, visit blackequityie.org

MORENO VALLEY, CA— Val Verde Unified School District Police Officer Zuriah McKnight filed suit against Val Verde Unified School District (VVUSD) and VVUSD Police Department, alleging among other things, Racial Discrimination, Failure to Prevent Harassment and Discrimination, and Retaliation, after Mr. McKnight opposed racial harassment and discrimination.

Mr. McKnight joined the VVUSD Police in 2019 and has received many positive accolades. In September 2022, Mr. McKnight was highlighted for his dedication to students and positive attitude in an article titled “Perris school resource officer shakes up rally with viral dance moves: ‘It was absolutely nuts’.”

Unfortunately, upon beginning his employment, Mr. McKnight immediately noticed that Black officers were treated disparately compared to white officers. Mr. McKnight was subjected to racial comments, including being asked by the Chief of Police if he was just going to “eat fried chicken.” Discriminatory racial comments were commonly made. In one instance, after being informed of an African American dinner at a school site, an employee remarked “why don’t they have an all-white people dinner?” Due to his race, Mr. McKnight received unfounded discipline that white officers did not and was told that he would not be sent to additional trainings like other officers.

Mr. McKnight also spoke up about the disparate treatment of female officers by VVUSD. When a female officer was injured in the field, the Chief of Police commented “if she was at home like she should have been, she wouldn’t have been shot.” Female officers were also denied ballistic vests, creating serious safety concerns.

Mr. McKnight and other officers were forced to work “on-call” for 7-day periods, meaning that they be required respond to any call at any hour of the day or night. Officers were also forced to candidate for VVUSD candidates and were told if they did not pass out flyers, “we know who will have a job and who won’t.”

Mr. McKnight continuously spoke up concerning these events and suffered from retaliation by VVUSD. Due to the hostile environment, Mr. McKnight was forced to take medical leave for his own health. While on leave, Mr. McKnight was subjected to false investigations to which he was not informed of, in violation of the Peace Officer Bill of Rights, and threatened by his supervisors and Chief of Police.

Mr. McKnight seeks economic and compensatory damages in his complaint filed in Riverside County Superior Court.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) recently launched a new program to assist part-time and returning students to stay in college and reach their academic goals.

Launched this fall, SBVC’s Dedicated Engagement to Empower Part-Timers (D.E.E.P.) is designed to ensure that first-year or re-entry students who are enrolled full-time at SBVC have the resources necessary to be successful. Services and benefits provided include counseling, financial assistance, priority registration B, free textbooks and a specially designed orientation.

By removing barriers, these students are more likely to fully integrate into the SBVC community, stay enrolled in classes, graduate and transfer to a four-year college.

“The program’s focus on serving the part-time student body came about after examining the specialized counseling programs available for that population at SBVC,” said Ayanna Spivey, D.E.E.P.’s student services coordinator. “The results showed a student enrolled in fewer than 12 units, which determines a student’s part-time or full-time status, limited a student’s ability to apply to several programs on campus. This information directed the decision to offer a program that allowed students to receive specialized services and benefits that meet the student’s life circumstances.”

To be eligible for the program, students must complete orientation, placement and submit a FAFSA (and DREAM Act application, if applicable). With dozens already signed up, D.E.E.P. expects about 100 Wolverines will join the program during its first year.

Click here to learn more about the D.E.E.P program

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-CA) announced at Cal State University, San Bernardino the introduction of the bipartisan Protecting Students’ Civil Rights Act to address discrimination and ensure racial equity on all college, university and trade school campuses. The legislation, co-led by Rep. Jenniffer González-Colón (R-PR), would require all Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs) to designate at least one employee to ensure compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin in any program or activity that receives federal funding. Title VI coordinators would be responsible for submitting publicly accessible annual reports to the Department of Justice on any civil rights claims filed.

“University campuses are meant to be places of diversity and acceptance, where students from all backgrounds can pursue knowledge and personal growth,” said Rep. Aguilar. “In order for our students to receive the best quality education our universities have to offer, they must feel safe and accepted on their campuses. I’m proud to introduce the Protecting Students’ Civil Rights Act to ensure that any instances of race-based harassment or discrimination on college campuses are addressed quickly and effectively.”

“Over the last decades our nation has taken monumental steps to combat discrimination, including within our colleges and universities, but work remains to be done. I’m proud to support the Protecting Students’ Civil Rights Act to require institutions of higher education to designate one employee to coordinate compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, and national origin in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance. This will ensure college campuses have the necessary processes in place to guarantee students, regardless of their background, can pursue their education free from discrimination and harassment,” said Rep. González-Colón.

Both the National Education Association and the California Community College Chancellor’s Office have endorsed theProtecting Students’ Civil Rights Act. 

“Every student – no matter their race, place, or background – deserves to learn free of harassment and discrimination. But sadly, in too many colleges and institutions of higher education students have been left to defend themselves in the face of discrimination. That is why the National Education Association applauds Rep. Pete Aguilar for introducing the Protecting Students’ Civil Rights Act, which would help safeguard the civil rights of all students, ensuring that campuses remain places of learning with no room of harassment and discrimination,” saidMarc Egan, Director of Government Relations of National Education Association.

“The California Community Colleges is devoted to building equity and to the protection of our students’ civil rights as they pursue their academic and career goals. Ensuring our campuses are free from discrimination and harassment is fundamental to the California Community Colleges and our Vision 2030, a framework centered on equity and the success of our students. On behalf of the California Community Colleges and our 1.8 million students, we are proud to support this effort to combat discrimination based on race, color, or national origin.  We are grateful to Rep. Aguilar for protecting our students,” said David O’Brien, Vice Chancellor of Government Relations of California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office.

Reps. Aguilar and González-Colón previously introduced theProtecting Students’ Civil Rights Act in the 117^th Congress.

Rep. Aguilar serves as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and is a member of the House Committee on Appropriations.