Ramos: ‘Heartened by the support of a broad representative group aimed at promoting and preserving the welfare and interests of state’s Indian tribes’
Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino) today issued the following statement upon learning that the California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) today announced its unanimous support for AB 1881, a Ramos measure creating the California Indian Freedom Act that would provide enforceable protections for the free exercise of California Indian religious and spiritual practices on state lands:
CNIGA stands with Ramos on AB 1881 that gives California’s First People a voice. I am heartened by the support of a broad representative group aimed at promoting and preserving the welfare and interests of the state’s Indian tribes. Few groups are as active and engaged in the work of protecting Native American sovereignty, furthering tribal advocacy and promoting tribal economic development. In 2026, we should not need to seek legislative protections to practice our culture and spiritual customs, but here we are, working to guarantee and protect rights that others take for granted.
We must be able to access sacred places for ceremonies, gather traditional plants, foods and materials and have our voices heard when these rights are abridged or restricted almost to the point of denial.
I thank CNIGA for their support of AB 1881 and the more than 130 tribal, law enforcement, business and mental health associations also championing this important bill.
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Assemblymember James C. Ramos proudly represents the 45th Assembly district that includes the Cities of Fontana, Highland, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto and San Bernardino. He is the first and only California Native American serving in the state’s legislature. Ramos chairs the Assembly Budget Subcommittee #6 on Public Safety and the Assembly Select Committee on Native American Affairs.
