Californians recently rejected Proposition 6, an anti-slavery ballot measure that aimed to eliminate forced prison labor. Despite this setback, lawmakers, led by Assemblymember Lori Wilson, are determined to reintroduce a revised version of the amendment in 2026. The proposed constitutional amendment, known as Assembly Constitutional Amendment 6, seeks to abolish all forms of slavery within the state.
The history of slavery in California dates back to the Gold Rush era, where the state allowed slave owners from other states to bring their slaves for labor. Even after the abolition of slavery, California continued to exploit prisoners, especially Black individuals, for labor in prisons like Folsom and San Quentin. The fight to remove this constitutional provision has been ongoing, with various attempts falling short due to misconceptions and opposition.
Wilson’s efforts to pass the anti-slavery measure have faced challenges, including confusion among voters and political distractions in previous election cycles. The language of the ballot summary for Proposition 6 focused on “involuntary servitude” rather than slavery, leading to misunderstandings. However, Wilson remains optimistic about the upcoming 2026 campaign, emphasizing the importance of educating the public on the issue.
The revised proposal aims to clarify the language and focus solely on prohibiting slavery in all forms. This new approach is expected to resonate with voters, especially in the wake of recent events that highlighted the contributions of incarcerated individuals, such as firefighters, during emergencies like the Palisades fires. The recognition of their bravery and commitment may help garner support for the anti-slavery amendment.
Advocates like Esteban Nunez and Sam Brown, who have experienced involuntary servitude firsthand, are actively involved in raising awareness and garnering support for the cause. Nunez, a former inmate, recalls facing threats and challenges while incarcerated, highlighting the need for reform. Brown, who served a lengthy sentence, emphasizes the impact of rules violations on parole prospects and believes the revised proposal is crucial to eliminating modern-day slavery in California.
Despite the obstacles faced in previous campaigns, Wilson, Nunez, Brown, and other advocates are determined to push forward with renewed efforts. They plan to engage in grassroots education and outreach to build support across the state. With a focus on local engagement and early collaboration with community leaders, they aim to overcome financial and political challenges that hindered past campaigns.
Looking ahead to the 2026 election, Wilson is hopeful that the political landscape in California will be more conducive to passing the anti-slavery amendment. As the state prepares for a gubernatorial election, the focus will be on California-specific issues, including racial justice and human rights. The push for anti-racism and anti-slavery policies reflects a broader commitment to social justice and equality in the state.
As the campaign for Assembly Constitutional Amendment 6 gains momentum, advocates are hopeful that California will take a significant step towards eradicating the remnants of legalized slavery within its borders. By uniting behind this cause and raising awareness about the impact of forced prison labor, they aim to bring about lasting change and uphold the values of freedom and justice for all.
