California Senate Bill Would Let Residents Mark Jewish Ethnicity on State Forms
California Senate Bill 1387, moving toward Gov. Gavin Newsom's desk, would add an optional “Jewish” ethnicity checkbox to state demographic forms, prompting debate among Jews.
Senate Bill 1387, recently approved by California's legislature, proposes an optional “Jewish” ethnicity box on a wide array of state forms, from public assistance applications to college admissions. Sponsored by state Sen. Henry Stern, the measure aims to fill data gaps that hinder effective responses to health, education and hate-crime issues affecting the estimated 1.2 million Jewish residents. Advocates such as Jewish California argue that recognizing Jews as an ethnic group will expose disparities and counter the misconception that Jewish identity is solely religious.
Opponents, including Rabbi Cat Zavis and the Bay Area chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace, contend the box flattens varied Jewish backgrounds and revives fears of governmental profiling reminiscent of the Holocaust. The proposal also raises concerns it could increase visibility of Jews amid a recent surge in antisemitic incidents. The bill now proceeds to Governor Gavin Newsom for final action.
Why it matters
Better demographic data could help California target health, education and safety resources for its large Jewish community.
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