2025 in Review: Seven Questions for Black Caucus Chair Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson

December 8, 2025

Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson made history in November 2024 as the first African American elected to California's State Senate from south of Los Angeles County, while also serving as Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus. Her greatest achievement this year was advancing two bills to the Governor's desk that would establish the nation's first state agency dedicated to addressing the needs of descendants of enslaved people, as part of the "Road to Repair" reparations initiative. Despite facing one of California's most challenging budget years, she successfully secured seed funding for a potential Bureau for Descendants of American Slavery while protecting critical community services from cuts.

Who is affected

Black Californians and descendants of enslaved people in California
Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson's constituents in the 39th Assembly District in greater San Diego
Black families experiencing the wealth gap (earning 63 cents per dollar compared to White families)
Black Californians experiencing homelessness (comprising roughly 25% of the homeless population despite being only 6-7% of the state's population)
Californians relying on critical state services that were protected during the budget crisis

What action is being taken

The California Legislative Black Caucus is working on the "Road to Repair" bill package to actualize California Reparations Task Force recommendations
California is creating state-level solutions to push back against federal policies
Weber Pierson is advancing legislation focused on stronger oversight and protecting democratic institutions

Why it matters

This represents a historic moment where California is positioned to become the first state in the nation to establish a government agency specifically dedicated to addressing the legacy of slavery and supporting descendants of enslaved people. The work addresses systemic inequality that manifests across multiple areas including economic disparities, housing insecurity, and health outcomes for Black Californians. The initiative establishes a framework for recognition, justice, and healing that could inspire similar efforts nationally, while demonstrating how state-level action can counter inadequate federal policies.

What's next

Weber Pierson's goal for 2026 is to advance policies that build healthier communities by addressing social determinants of health, including safe housing, quality education, affordable living, healthcare access, healthy food, clean air, and climate change commitments, ensuring every family can thrive regardless of income or zip code.

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint