Race, Ethnicity, and Policy-Making in California

Identity Politics

California is one of the most diverse states in the United States, with a large population of people from various racial and ethnic backgrounds. As a result, race and ethnicity have played a significant role in California politics and policy-making.

One of the ways that race and ethnicity have influenced California politics is through the formation of identity-based political groups. These groups advocate for policies that are reflective of the unique experiences and needs of their respective communities.

For example, Latino advocacy groups may focus on issues related to immigration reform, while African American groups may focus on criminal justice reform and police accountability.

Policy-Making

Race and ethnicity have also played a role in shaping policy-making in California. For example, affirmative action policies have been a contentious issue in California politics for decades.

In 1996, California voters passed Proposition 209, which banned affirmative action in public employment, education, and contracting. However, in 2020, voters passed Proposition 16, which repealed Proposition 209 and allowed for affirmative action policies to be reinstated.