Press Statement
As a black male, a direct descendant of slavery, I am both hopeful as the CA Reparations Taskforce completes its sacred work to repair the devastating effects of slavery, fugitive slave act, Jim Crow, segregation and other crimes against humanity. I endorse and stand behind the findings of the reparation task force. These findings not only resonate with my personal experiences, but they reflect the lived reality of the African American community. Now that the task force has finalized its recommendations, it is incumbent upon California to take decisive action and rectify the deep-rooted systemic racism that has permeated our state's institutions.
It is imperative that we not only acknowledge the historical injustices inflicted upon African Americans, but also offer a sincere apology for these acts. However, words alone are not enough. We must now take concrete steps to implement tangible policies that address the wealth inequality, housing segregation, discriminatory policing, and maternal health disparities that have plagued our community for far too long.
However, I am deeply saddened by the ruling of the Supreme Court that ends Affirmative Action in college admissions. This ruling doubles downs on the failed color-blind society experiment. This theory has proven to be false, because if you cannot see me, you cannot serve me and meet my unique needs that African Americans share.
California has long prided itself on its commitment to equity, and it is time for us to live up to that promise. I am dedicated to championing these measures and leveraging my position as an advocate for social justice and anti-racism to ensure that California fulfills its obligation to the African American community. I am equally committed to fighting against any and all attempts to roll back the progress this nation has made over the last 50 years. Together, we can create a future where true equality is realized and where the wounds of the past are healed through meaningful healing and reparations.