ACR 59 is a nonbinding legislative resolution that proclaims April 24, 2025, as California Holocaust Memorial Day. It urges Californians to observe the day in an appropriate manner to remember the victims of the Holocaust and to reflect on the historical lessons of genocide, hatred, and the importance of human rights and democratic values.
The resolution includes extensive findings describing the Holocaust as the Nazi regime’s systematic murder of 6 million Jews and the persecution and killing of millions of other victims. It also emphasizes the heroism of those who resisted the Nazis, the liberation of concentration camps by American soldiers, and the need to teach future generations about antisemitism, racism, persecution, and tyranny. The measure further references the rise in antisemitic violence and hate incidents in California and globally, especially following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel and the ensuing war.
Impact
Because ACR 59 is a concurrent resolution, it does not amend the California Codes, create a new program, or impose regulatory or fiscal obligations. Its legal effect is symbolic and commemorative: it formally designates a one-day observance and encourages public remembrance, while leaving existing state law unchanged. The resolution primarily affects state institutions and Californians generally by promoting educational and memorial activities around Holocaust remembrance and antisemitism awareness.
Sentiment
The vote history indicates overwhelmingly supportive sentiment, with unanimous approval in the recorded votes (10-0 and 34-0). The text itself is strongly affirmative and commemorative, framing the resolution as a moral statement about remembrance, vigilance against hatred, and support for Jewish communities. There is no evidence in the provided materials of organized opposition or divided committee discussion.
Contention
No substantive contention appears in the available record. The resolution’s subject matter is broadly noncontroversial in legislative terms, and the votes were unanimous. The only potentially sensitive aspect is the bill’s explicit reference to the increase in antisemitism and the post-October 7, 2023 conflict context, which may reflect broader political and social tensions, but no formal objections or competing viewpoints are shown in the transcripts or vote record.