Dozens of Indian Americans protested against a bill that would ban caste discrimination in California, reports NRI Affairs.
The bill by State Senator Aisha Wahab follows the passage of a similar measure in the city of Seattle in February, making it the first city in the country to do so.
The Coalition of Hindus of North America say the bill singles out Hindus or assumes they are discriminating based on social status. According to the Asian Times, opponents claim the bill will incite hatred against Hindus and other Asians and violates the principle of equal justice for all regardless of color, religion or background.
The bill would prevent caste discrimination in housing, education and employment.
Wahab defended his bill.
“Caste goes beyond religion and nationality. This legislation primarily protects millions who live in silence and have never had such protection because there is little understanding of this issue. This bill is about protecting people who are vulnerable,” she said to NRI Affairs.
If passed, California would be the first state in the nation to have a caste discrimination law.
Several universities in the country have also passed similar proposals.
Last year Brown University became the first Ivy League school to pass an anti-caste discrimination policy.
The California State University system did the same earlier in the year.
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