On Wednesday morning, the California Black Power Network (CBPN) convened more than 100 community advocates to march through the streets of Sacramento and rally on the steps of the State Capitol. The event was organized to urge legislators to support a legislative package aimed at repairing past harms and protecting the future of Black Californians.
“Today, we brought the voices of over 832,000 Californians from across the state to the forefront. The policies we are championing for 2025 mark a significant stride in our mission to Repair the Past and Protect Black Futures,” said James Woodson, Executive Director and Co-founder of the California Black Power Network. “At the California Black Power Network, we are unwavering in our commitment to systemic and structural reforms that uplift the most vulnerable communities. Our fight is clear—we will hold the California legislature accountable to address the needs and priorities of Black communities with the urgency and justice they deserve.”
Several members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) joined the rally to speak in support of the proposed legislation. Assemblymember Sade Elhawary spoke on the importance of creating a pathway forward for incarcerated community members through her bill, AB 1380, the California Firefighter Certification Program. She emphasized the value of second chances and equity in employment.
“This bill will support our communities, our folks who have [been] impacted by mass incarceration, so they can have a real chance to move forward,” said Elhawary.
Assemblymember Isaac Bryan addressed the crowd in support of his reparations-focused bill, AB 7, the Legacy of Harm & Exclusion Consideration Act. The bill would allow California State University, the University of California, and private and independent institutions of higher education to consider admissions preferences for applicants who are descendants of U.S. chattel slavery.
“For many generations, we weren’t allowed to read and write, then they kept us in separate but unequal schools,” said Bryan. “Then, for many generations after that, we were barred from higher education. We helped build these institutions of higher learning. It’s about time that we get full participation in them.”
Two additional bills authored by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor—AB 57 and AB 62—also address the call for reparations. AB 57 proposes reserving a portion of the California Home Ownership Assistance Program for descendants of formerly enslaved people, while AB 62 would provide a pathway to repair for victims of racially motivated eminent domain.
Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D., Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus, added broader context to the day’s legislative push.
“Repairing the harm caused by American Chattel Slavery and Jim Crow-era policies is a moral obligation that California must fulfill to address historical injustices against Black Californians,” said Weber Pierson. “Organizations like the California Black Power Network amplify the voices of residents demanding leadership in reparative justice. SB 518 is a pivotal step toward building the infrastructure needed to administer reparative benefits effectively. By prioritizing meaningful legislation like SB 518, alongside initiatives such as AB 62 for Black homeownership and AB 7 for equitable college admissions, California can lay the foundation for a more just future that benefits all residents. When Black Californians thrive, California thrives.”
In addition to legislative demands, community members also called on Attorney General Rob Bonta to investigate the emergency response to the Eaton Fire. Advocates noted the fire disproportionately impacted Black and Brown neighborhoods and raised concerns about potential negligence, inequitable resource deployment, and broader public health consequences.
The rally was held in partnership with the Black Equity Collective, Black Equity Initiative—Inland Empire, Bold Black LA, and LiveFree California. With statewide representation and strong legislative backing, the event reflected a growing call for the state to not only acknowledge historical injustices but also take meaningful steps toward lasting repair.
About CBPN:
The California Black Power Network (CBPN) is a coalition of 46 grassroots organizations committed to building Black political power across the state. By advocating for policies that affirm the dignity, rights, and humanity of Black Californians, CBPN continues to lead the charge in advancing justice, equity, and opportunity for all.