October 20, 2025

Students walk on a tree-lined road in the middle of a college campus on a rainy morning. One student, in the center of the frame, rides anelectric scooter.

Higher Education

A scholarship for Black California students has to accept white applicants. Here’s why

Students and a right-leaning nonprofit sued UC San Diego for allegedly supporting a scholarship fund for Black students. They cited the 1871 Ku Klux Klan Act as evidence to support their case.

By Adam Echelman • October 20, 2025

A man speaks at a press conference behind a wooden podium with microphones, gesturing with one hand, while three other suited individuals stand beside him. Two U.S. flags are visible in the background, suggesting a government or congressional setting.

Politics

This city banned the Pride flag. Newsom’s maps would give them a progressive, gay congressman

Huntington Beach and its all-Republican city council have proudly led California’s conservative resistance. Now, if California voters approve Gov. Gavin Newsom’s plan to temporarily redraw the state’s congressional maps, the city would be represented by Rep. Robert Garcia, a gay progressive who leads Democrats on the House Oversight Committee.

By Maya C. Miller • October 20, 2025

A student wearing a blue shirt with a panda graphic writes notes on a sticky pad while holding an open book in their lap. Their focus is on the page as they balance the book on gray sweatpants, with a black watch visible on one wrist.

K-12 Education

Expect more phonics lessons in California schools under law Newsom signed

The law comes on the heels of a host of other literacy initiatives, including mandatory dyslexia screening and universal transitional kindergarten.

By Carolyn Jones • October 20, 2025

A person on a stage wearing a black football jersey holding a microphone while lights shine behind him and a screen reading “Ice Cube.”

Commentary

Stockton is redefining its identity through the evolution of its hip-hop scene

Stockton struggles with an identity crisis, born out of geography and a distance that impedes everything: access to industry, audiences and opportunities.

By Tama Brisbane • October 20, 2025