What is this bill about?
AB 1881 provides enforceable protections for the free exercise of California Indian religious and spiritual practices on state public lands.
How does it align with yli’s values?
California is home to the largest population of Native Americans in the country, with more than 100 Native Nations residing in the state. Each Nation maintains its own distinct religions, spiritual traditions, ceremonies, and sacred sites, practices that long predate statehood and continue to this day. However, centuries of violent government suppression have placed the survival of these religious and spiritual practices in danger.
AB 1881 strengthens protections for tribes’ religious and spiritual practices by ensuring that the state cannot interfere with their ability to practice their traditions. This bill recognizes tribes’ deep connections to the land and natural resources, which are central to tribal identity and community, and affirms that these connections are inseparable from their spiritual and religious practices.
For three and half decades, yli has worked alongside thousands of youth to amplify their voices and implement their solutions for meaningful community change. We stand in solidarity with First Nations, and are staunch advocates of their right to self-determination.
This policy aligns with our Racial Justice Platform, which addresses the impacts of systemic racism on communities of color.
What is yli doing about it?
We have just submitted a letter endorsing this bill, and we are showing our support on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Who supports this bill?
- Indigenous Justice (Sponsor)
- Dulap Band Mono Indians Cultural Association
- International Indian Treaty Council
- Kaweah Yokuts Circle
- Nor El Muk Band of Wintu Indians of Northern California