On Friday, September 24, 2021, Governor Gavin Newsom signed bill AB 1096 which banishes the word “Alien” from all sections of the California state code. Gov. Newsom believes this is a positive move forward, as he believes the previous wording is “an offensive term for a human being.” 

California previously removed the word “alien” from the state’s labor and education code in 2015 and 2016. However, those alterations did not cover the many other codes that California abides to. Gov. Newsom’s new law signifies the removal of this derogatory term from all laws in the state of California. 

The term “alien” was used in the past to define residents who are not U.S citizens.  The word will change to terms like “immigrant” or “non-citizen.”

“By changing this term, we are ensuring California’s laws reflect our state values.” Newsom stated. 

Newsom also stated in an interview, “As the nation’s most diverse state, we are stronger and more vibrant because of our immigrant communities.” People went on to praise Gov. Newsom on social media as many believe that this is a positive step forward against the fight of institutional racism. 

This California measure is just one of several bills Gov. Newsom signed last Friday. The other laws signed included measures that established coding and safety regulations at detention centers, as well as establishing rights for undocumented and unaccompanied minors.