Black Attorneys Champion Reparations Legislation Focused on College Admissions Equity

Members of the California Association of Black Lawyers (CABL) were prominently present at the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on July 15, advocating for Assembly Bill (AB) 7. This proposed legislation would allow public and private higher education institutions to prioritize admission for descendants of enslaved individuals, in a continued effort to mitigate the enduring effects of slavery and systemic racism in education. Introduced by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Ladera Heights), who also serves as vice chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), the bill garnered an 11-2 vote in committee. CABL members and supporters emphasized that this bill is crucial for ensuring access to education for historically marginalized groups. Bryan highlighted the importance of addressing legacy admissions that have perpetuated privilege. While opposition exists from Senators like Roger Niello and Suzette Martinez-Valladares, supporters stress that AB 7 takes a lineage-based approach, aiming for reparative justice without contravening federal laws. (CBM photo by Antonio R. Harvey)