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CSU system adds caste to anti-discrimination policies: Indian Americans sharply divided on support

In a landmark move, the California State University system has added caste to its anti-discrimination policies for the 23 campuses under its umbrella, but Indian Americans are sharply divided on the issue.

Sunita Sohrabji

• 4 min read
CSU system adds caste to anti-discrimination policies: Indian Americans sharply divided on support
Prem Pariyar, who received his master's degree in social work at Cal State University East Bay, said he experienced caste discrimination while at the University. Photo courtesy of Prem Pariyar.

In a landmark move, the California State University System has added caste to its anti-discrimination policies for the 23 campuses under its umbrella, but Indian Americans are sharply divided on the issue.

Dalit Americans, many who say they have faced discrimination at the state’s campuses, cheered the move — the first of its kind in the U.S. — noting people of lower castes need protection.