The State Assembly passed the California Values Act (SB 54) and the California Religious Freedom Act (SB 31), marking a momentous victory for immigrant rights organizations.
SB 54, introduced by Senate Pro Tem Kevin de León, will protect the safety and well-being of all Californians by ensuring that our state and local resources are not used to fuel mass deportations and ensuring that state services are accessible to all Californians.
SB 31, introduced by Senator Ricardo Lara would prohibit a state or local agency from participating in a federal program to create a database based on a person’s religious beliefs, national origin, or ethnicity for law enforcement or immigration purposes.
“CAIR-CA welcomes the passage of immigrants rights legislation, SB 54 and SB 31”, said CAIR-CA Legislative & Government Affairs Coordinator Yannina Casillas. “Since the inauguration of President Donald Trump we have seen policies that threaten the livelihood of vulnerable communities. SB 54 and SB 31 will limit local law enforcement cooperation with prejudicial federal immigration policies and ensure that all Californians’ safety and civil rights are protected.”
The California Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations advocated for the California Values Act and the California Religious Freedom Act at their 6th Annual Muslim Day at the Capitol where over 700 Muslims across California gathered in Sacramento to urge their legislators’ support.