In 1959 California Governor Edmund G. “Pat” Brown signed the Fair Employment Practices Act (FEPA) that prohibits race discrimination in employment and public accommodations. At the request of the Governor, the California Legislature enacted FEPA years ahead of federal legislation with similar protections in the U.S. Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Learn more about Governor Pat Brown and his vision for California by downloading his First Inaugural Address - January 5, 1959
The Pat Brown Institute of Public Affairs (PBI) is dedicated to the quest for social justice and equality of opportunity, enlightened civic engagement, and enhancing the quality of life for all Californians.
The PBI is a non-partisan public policy center dedicated to sustaining the vision and legacy of former California Governor Edmund G. “Pat” Brown through convening public policy forums, engaging multi sector stakeholders and diverse communities, and conducting timely policy research and community-driven initiatives. More »
