California Lets Students Wear Tribal Regalia at Graduations. Why It’s Still Controversial
- Eight years ago, California enacted a law that permits students to don tribal regalia, such as eagle feathers and necklaces, during high school graduation ceremonies.
- The issue resurfaced as Assemblyman James Ramos introduced AB 1369 to remove advance approval for wearing Native American regalia amid widespread school resistance.
- A 2024 ACLU and California Indian Legal Services study found 56% of schools require pre-approval, often weeks ahead, causing delays and stress for Native students.
- Ramos expressed frustration that some districts remain noncompliant despite the time that has passed, while students report feeling anxious about whether their traditional regalia will be approved for graduation.
- Removing approval may expose schools to cultural appropriation risks, but advocates argue it supports reversing long-standing discrimination and affirms Native identities.
13 Articles
13 Articles

California lets students wear tribal regalia at graduations. Why it’s still controversial
California law requires schools to let students wear tribal graduation regalia. But many school districts made the process difficult.
CSUEB commencement controversy leaves special education students frustrated
A group of special education students are frustrated and disappointed after Cal State East Bay informed them they will not get to walk across the stage during this weekend’s graduation ceremonies. The college said the students did not meet graduation requirements. “They were told that they are graduating and would have a ceremony,” said Anita Ng, a parent of one of the students. “That makes them feel like they are included in the community. Now …


Special education students at CSU East Bay denied commencement walk
The first cohort of students graduating from California State University, East Bay’s intellectual disability program will not walk at the college’s commencement ceremony this weekend, officials confirmed, sparking backlash from advocates who say the school is failing to live up to its mission of inclusivity. Related Articles Older people in crosshairs as government restarts Social Security garnishment on student loans …
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