A California assemblymember is spearheading a legislative initiative to grant descendants of slaves preferential admission to the state's two largest public university systems. Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, a Democrat representing Los Angeles, announced his intention to introduce this bill during the new legislative session in Sacramento. He argues that universities have a history of prioritizing certain applicants, often donors and their families, and this bill aims to address historical injustices.

Bryan stated, "Universities have practiced preferential admission for decades, largely benefiting donors and relatives, while those connected to legacies of harm were overlooked or excluded. We have a moral obligation to rectify these past wrongs."

This proposed legislation comes as the incoming Trump administration is anticipated to curtail diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn affirmative action in college admissions last year, while allowing legacy preferences to remain, critics contend that admissions processes are now even more biased against students of color.

The bill would prioritize descendants of slaves for admission to the University of California and California State University systems. Data from 2023 reveals that Black students constituted approximately 4% of the California State University student body and around 4.7% at the University of California.

This initiative aligns with broader efforts in California to address the historical impact of slavery, including a recent law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom formally apologizing for the state's history of racism and discrimination against Black residents. While California never legally permitted slavery, ongoing discussions regarding reparations continue.

This legislative session also includes a special session focused on safeguarding progressive policies in anticipation of President-elect Donald Trump's second term. Trump has expressed his commitment to curbing "wokeness" in education and has strongly criticized the Department of Education, even advocating for its dismantling.