Bo Tefu | California Black Media
California NAACP Backs Bill Proposing Evidence-Based Teaching Methods for Children
The NAACP California Hawaii State Conference (NAACP CA-HI) has partnered with Decoding Dyslexia CA, EdVoice, and Families In Schools to sponsor a new early literacy bill, AB 1121, authored by Assemblymember Blanca Rubio (D-Baldwin Park).
The bill seeks to implement an evidence-based approach to teaching reading in California’s elementary schools. That method aims to address gaping inequities in reading achievement, particularly for vulnerable student populations.
AB 1121 is part of a broader effort to tackle the alarming literacy gap. Data shows that only 2 in 10 Black third-grade students from low-income communities in California are reading on grade level. In addition, students in California rank 39th out of 42 states in fourth-grade reading proficiency.
“The NAACP CA-HI is committed to eliminating racial prejudice and ensuring educational equity,” said Rick L. Callender, President of the NAACP California Hawaii State Conference. “Reading is not just an educational issue but a social justice issue. We must prioritize providing all children with the tools they need to succeed.”
Rubio emphasized the importance of translating research into action.
“We’ve made strides in understanding how children learn to read. AB 1121 will ensure that this knowledge leads to tangible improvements in classrooms, helping every child succeed academically and beyond,” she said.
AB 1121 is scheduled for review by the Assembly Education Committee this spring. Proponents of the bill are encouraging the public to sign a petition stating their support for the legislation: www.californiakidsread.org.
Corrin Rankin Begins Tenure as Chair of the California Republican Party
A week after being elected chair of the California Republican Party (CAGOP), Corrin Rankin is transitioning into her new role by onboarding personnel and planning a budget for her tenure, California Black Media was told by a representative who handles her public affairs.
Rankin is the first Black woman to assume the top role at CAGOP. Her duties include engaging communities across the state, addressing issues that concern voters, communicating CAGOP’s policies and messages, and fundraising.
Rankin’s nomination was accepted at the CAGOP’s convention in Sacramento, held from March 14 through March 16.
On March 18, Rankin posted on her page on the social media platform X, “I was just elected Chair of the @CAGOP. Now the real work begins. We’re focused on solutions, growing the party, and investing to win. We’re doubling down on voter registration and proving the GOP is here to serve. Let’s get to work.”
Rankin succeeds former CAGOP Chair Jessica Milan Patterson, who termed out. John Park, former vice chairman of the Orange County Republican Party, was elected CAGOP’s vice chair, replacing Rankin in that position.
Sen. Shannon Grove Expresses Disappointment Over Education Committee’s Rejection of SB 64
Last week, Sen. Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) voiced strong disapproval after the Senate Education Committe3 voted 5-2 to defeat her proposed legislation, Senate Bill (SB) 64, the California Education Flex Account Act of 2025. Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) voiced strong disapproval after the Senate Education Committee voted 5-2 to defeat her proposed legislation, Senate Bill (SB) 64, the California Education Flex Account Act of 2025.
The bill, which aimed to address California’s position as 37th in national educational rankings, would have allowed parents to choose the accredited school that best suited their child’s needs, with education funding following the student.
“Senate Bill 64 would have empowered families, not bureaucracies, and let the money follow the child,” said Grove.
“This decision denies parents and students the opportunity to thrive in schools that match their needs. Students trapped in underperforming schools due to their zip codes face predictable failure. When given the choice, they excel. We won’t stop fighting for that choice,” she said.
Critics point out that California’s per-student spending of approximately $24,700 is above the national average, yet the state consistently ranks poorly in academic achievement, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress test results for4th and 8th graders.
Despite that significant investment, many parents argue that the current system fails to adequately prepare students for future success. Students of color, especially African American and Latino students, are disproportionately affected, with many struggling to meet grade-level standards.
SB 64 aimed to address these issues by providing:
- Individualized Flex Accounts: $8,000 for tuition and education-related expenses, and $16,000 for special needs students.
- Support for Existing Public Schools: Ensuring local and federal funding remains allocated to public schools.
- Accountability and Accessibility: Funds would only be used for accredited educational institutions.
Despite the bill’s defeat, Grove says whe remains steadfast in her commitment to expanding educational choices and opportunities for all California students.
“Too many students are struggling to meet even the minimum education standard – a problem that could impact their entire future,” said Grove. We need bold action to give every child the greatest opportunity for upward mobility and success.”
UC Ends “Diversity Statement” Requirement in Job Application Process
The University of California (UC) will no longer require faculty applicants to submit “diversity statements,” a policy change driven by increased scrutiny from the Trump administration over diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The statements, which asked applicants to describe how they have contributed to diversity in their fields, have been part of the UC hiring process for nearly two decades.
UC’s decision follows threats from the Department of Education to revoke federal funding from institutions with DEI programs. The UC Board of Regents announced the change after a series of investigations into allegations that universities were discriminating against White, Asian American, and Jewish students and faculty. Katherine S. Newman, UC’s provost, emphasized that the university’s values remain unchanged, but noted that diversity statements could divert attention from an applicant’s academic qualifications.
“The requirement to submit a diversity statement may lead applicants to focus on an aspect of their candidacy that is outside their expertise or prior experience,” said Newman in a letter to campus provosts.
“We can continue to effectively serve our communities from a variety of life experiences, backgrounds, and points of view without requiring diversity statements,” she added.
While the ban on stand-alone diversity statements will take effect, faculty are still permitted to share “inclusive academic achievements” during the academic review process. This move aligns with a national trend, as universities like USC, Harvard, and MIT have also discontinued the practice of requiring diversity statements.
Critics, including UC faculty such as law professor Brian Soucek, argue that the policy is a direct response to political pressure from the Trump administration. Soucek expressed disappointment, claiming the change undermines years of research and advocacy for diversity in hiring.
“It can only be explained as an attempt at advanced appeasement of the Trump administration’s current threats,” Soucek told the Los Angeles Times.
“There is nothing else that possibly motivates this change in general or this change being done in this particular way at the current moment,” he said.
UC Board of Regents Chair Janet Reilly maintained that the university would continue to “embrace and celebrate Californians from a variety of life experiences.”
The U.S. Department of Education has also launched investigations into UC Berkeley and other campuses over their ties with the PhD Project, a nonprofit aimed at promoting workplace diversity.
Calif. Officials to Sec. of Defense: Restore Digital Links to Native American Historical Info
Leaders of California Legislative caucuses — including Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister), Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino) – the first Native American elected to the State Legislature — are urging U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to “quickly and completely restore” digital historical links telling the stories of heroic Native Americans during World War 11.
The letter to Hegseth, dated March 20, was also signed by the Chair and the Vice Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), Sen. Akilah Weber-Pierson (D-San Diego) and Asm. Isaac Bryan (D-Ladera Heights).
The officials called the removal of the information “disrespectful.”
“Historical acknowledgements of Native Americans, Latino Americans, African Americans, Asian Americans and others do not place one group above another but rather demonstrate that all groups contributed to American military victories during times of peril, the letter read.
In a statement, Rivas said, “We must always honor and remember the sacrifice and acts of valor by World War II Code Talkers. As members of California tribes, their heroism represents an essential narrative, part of our country’s rich and proud history, which should inspire and sustain us now and in the future.
Ramos also released a statement.
“Armed Forces members of every ethnic group, race and creed have sacrificed side by side to uphold our freedom and values. Together, they celebrated their victories and mourned their losses,” he said.
“It is inconceivable that DoD would now pick and choose which individuals to honor and which to erase. Tribal Code Talkers served during two world wars and provided invaluable services,” Ramos continued. “Pfc. Ira Hayes, a Pima Indian, planted the flag atop Mt. Suribachi with fellow Marines during one of the costliest battles of WW II. Why would we want to deliberately forget those sacrifices and triumphs?”
Gov. Newsom in Latest Podcast: Dems Alienated Men and Businesses While Uplifting Oppressed People
Gov. Gavin Newsom’s latest podcast episode marks a significant shift in his political messaging. In a conversation with Tim Walz, Minnesota Governor and 2024 Democratic vice-presidential candidate, Newsom moved away from his previous focus on attacking former President Trump.
Instead, he tackled issues surrounding Democratic strategies and government efficiency. The two leaders discussed the need for Democrats to better engage with working-class men and businesses and address the shortcomings in government delivery.
Newsom’s praise for government workers during the aftermath of the California wildfires demonstrated his growing focus on pragmatism and results.
Walz echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that delivering tangible outcomes is crucial for maintaining political success.
“When you deliver on things that improve people’s lives, it’s amazing how good the politics is,” said Walz.
Newsom emphasized that governors are responsible for ensuring government agencies operate efficiently and are accessible to the public.
“What you’re talking about is government efficiency, focusing on outcomes,” Newsom said. “That’s got to be part of our core messaging.”
However, Newsom’s podcast has also sparked controversy. His comments on trans athletes, in which he agreed with far-right influencer Charlie Kirk that it’s unfair for trans women to compete in women’s sports, drew backlash from LGBT advocates. Some argue that Newsom’s podcast risks alienating key Democratic allies by engaging with conservative voices, potentially undercutting his leadership among progressive groups.
Despite these challenges, polling data suggests that Newsom’s handling of the wildfires and his focus on government efficiency have boosted his favorability ratings. Yet, his podcast’s more contentious content may have contributed to a dip in his popularity, as public opinion surveys show a slight decline in approval since the show’s launch.
