

An Unexpected Battle Over Banning Caste Discrimination
53 snips Sep 25, 2023
Amy Qin, a national correspondent for The New York Times, dives into California's groundbreaking Senate Bill 403 aimed at banning caste discrimination. She discusses the historical roots of the caste system and the personal struggles faced by those impacted by it in the U.S. The conversation highlights the fierce debate within the South Asian community over the bill, revealing concerns about identity and potential legal ramifications. As California leads the charge, the implications for marginalized groups and systemic inequality come to light.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Shifting Demographics
- Increased South Asian immigration diversity, due to affirmative action policies in India, has brought caste dynamics to the forefront.
- Earlier waves of skilled immigrants were predominantly upper caste, masking the issue.
Cisco Lawsuit
- A Dalit employee sued Cisco for caste discrimination, alleging less pay and denied opportunities.
- This lawsuit sparked a significant conversation in California about caste.
Housing Discrimination
- Bim Narayan Bishwakarma, a Nepali immigrant, faced caste discrimination when seeking housing in California.
- His landlord rescinded a room offer after learning Bishwakarma's lower-caste last name.