Today, many are still denied this right by practice. California’s nearly three quarters of a million Native Americans deserve to have their voices heard in our democracy."Ĭhairman Anthony Roberts of the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation said, “Native Americans were denied the right to vote for so long by law. Secretary of State Alex Padilla, the bill’s sponsor said, “Learning from the experience and expertise of voting rights experts and tribal representatives will help us address the unique challenges Native American voters face in participating in our elections, both on and off the reservation. “I look forward to the day when it is not unusual to have Native Americans in public office, and when I am not the only California Native American in the Legislature.” Voting also impacts how we and our families live,” Ramos said. “That right to vote gives each person a say in how they will be governed, who will guide school districts and counties, a say in passing measures for parks, hospitals, roads, water lines, roads, libraries and more. Many only possess tribal identification, which is not recognized for voting purposes. American Indians also faced the same barriers to voting as African Americans and other minorities such as poll taxes, literacy tests and intimidation. Ramos noted Arizona and New Mexico barred Native Americans from voting up until 1948. These factors, he observed, are why voter turnout among Native Americans is five to 14 percent lower than that of other ethnic or racial groups. “Even after gaining citizenship, not all tribes were given full access to the precious right to cast a ballot,” Ramos added. The lawmaker is the first California Indian elected to the Legislature. He was elected in 2018, hails from the Serrano/Cahuilla tribe and is a lifelong member of the San Manuel Indian Reservation in San Bernardino County. “Native Americans were denied American citizenship and voting rights until 1924, and that history had a chilling effect on electoral and civic participation,” Ramos said. Require that the committee consist of the Secretary of State, the secretary’s designees and additional members appointed by the secretary. Require committee appointees to have demonstrated experience with voting rights or be a county elections official Require the Secretary of State to consult with the advisory committee to consider recommendations making voting more accessible for Native American voters Ramos (D-Highland) would authorize the Secretary of State to create an advisory committee. SACRAMENTO-California’s Assembly today approved and sent to the Senate a proposal to help Native Americans gain greater access to the electoral process.ĪB 2314 by Assemblymember James C.
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