Newsom's Veto of College Admissions Bill Sparks Debate on Reparations
Governor Gavin Newsom's rejection of a bill that would have granted preference to descendants of slaves in college admissions has ignited a heated discussion on the topic of reparations. This decision comes at a critical juncture, as the Trump administration has been actively dismantling diversity initiatives on college campuses, raising concerns about the future of higher education in the United States.
The bill, authored by Democratic Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, aimed to address historical injustices by providing a pathway for students with a direct connection to the legacy of slavery to gain an advantage in the admissions process. However, Newsom's veto message suggests a more cautious approach, urging universities to carefully consider the implementation of such preferences.
Assemblymember Bryan expressed disappointment, emphasizing the ongoing threats to diversity and inclusivity from the Trump administration. He argued that it is crucial to stand up for students who have endured the consequences of historical harm and exclusion.
Newsom's recent actions regarding reparations have been both supportive and cautious. He approved the establishment of a state agency to administer reparations and signed a bill requiring the California State University system to develop procedures for identifying descendants of slavery. However, he also vetoed two other reparations-related bills, one focusing on compensating victims of racially motivated eminent domain and another providing home-buying assistance to descendants of slaves.
The vetoed school admissions bill, AB 7, was a significant step towards recognizing the historical impact of slavery. It would have allowed, but not mandated, schools to give preference to descendants of slavery. This bill was a part of a broader reparations package advocated by the Legislative Black Caucus, aiming to define 'descendant of slavery' as someone with a direct familial connection to individuals who experienced American chattel slavery, including those who were freed, classified as runaways, or served in the military while facing slavery-related restrictions.
Supporters, including the University of California Student Association, argued that this measure would address a fraction of the systemic discrimination faced by Black students. The California Faculty Association echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the law would offer a crucial option for institutions to consider a student's lineage in admissions decisions.
Despite the bill's passage in both the Assembly and the Senate, it faced challenges regarding implementation details, the number of generations eligible, and the criteria for determining eligibility. These concerns highlight the complexity of implementing reparations and the need for careful consideration to ensure fairness and effectiveness.
