Assemblymember Dr. Shirley Weber (D – San Diego) and a broad coalition of colleagues and business leaders today announced ACA 5, which would initiate a ballot initiative to officially repeal Proposition 209 , California’s ban on affirmative action. An antiquated law passed under Republican Governor Pete Wilson, Proposition 209 has prevented equal opportunity programs in public contracting, public employment and public education.

“This is a historic moment for California that has come not a moment too soon,” said Eva Paterson, Executive Director of the Equal Justice Society. “California is one of just eight states that bars public programs that level the playing field for women and people of color in public contracting, public employment and public education. It’s time for us to join the rest of the nation, deliver on our promise of equal opportunity for all, renounce discrimination in all forms, and repeal Proposition 209.”

As reported in The…