Wolk gets “A” for promoting equality for all Californians

Assemblywoman scores high on new legislative report card on racial equity

The announcement coincided with the Center's release of the first "multiracial" report card in California. The report, California's New Majority: The 2004 Legislative Report Card on Race, grades each member of the California Assembly and Senate based on their support for ten bills which, if passed by the State Legislature and signed by the Governor, would have the most positive impact on communities of color.

Both the state Senate and Assembly received an average grade of "C" on the report card.

"Our state is one of the most diverse in the nation," said Assemblywoman Wolk. "But to be considered a true melting pot, we need to redouble our efforts to defend and promote equality for all Californians."

Wolk's district includes Solano County, which has the highest percentage of multiracial persons in California. According to a study published last August by the Public Policy Institute of California, more than six percent of Solano County's residents consider themselves multiracial, almost thirty-percent higher than the state average.

Legislators' grades on the report card were based on their support for ten bills. Each bill met at least one of the following criteria:

• Explicitly addressed racial outcomes and worked to eliminate racial inequities.
  
• Increased access to public benefits and institutions for communities of color.
  
• Advanced enfranchisement and full civic participation for all Californians.
  
• Protected against racial violence, racial profiling, and discrimination.
  
• Is enforceable, and there are mechanisms in place to ensure accountability.