California Offers Reparations for Forced Sterilization Victims, Apply Now
California is offering reparations to victims of forced sterilization who underwent medically unnecessary procedures at state-run hospitals, prisons, or other facilities. The Forced or Involuntary Sterilization Compensation Program was created by lawmakers in 2021 to address the historical mistreatment of Californians, particularly Black, Latino, and Indigenous individuals, between 1909 and 1979.
Approximately 20,000 people, primarily from marginalized communities, were forcibly sterilized as part of the state’s eugenics policies during that period. The procedures, which included hysterectomies, ovary removals, and tubal ligations, were often performed without the victims’ consent or under deceptive circumstances. Some individuals unknowingly underwent sterilizing procedures, believing they were undergoing other medical treatments, such as fibroid removal or biopsies.
To rectify this injustice, the state has allocated $4.5 million for reparations, which will be distributed to eligible survivors. However, time is running out to apply for compensation, as the program is set to expire on December 31, 2023. So far, only 100 people have been approved for compensation, including merely three out of the 20,000 individuals sterilized between 1909 and 1979. Researchers estimate that there may still be hundreds of survivors who are unaware of the program’s existence or facing difficulties navigating the application process.
One of the challenges faced by many survivors is the lack of records or access to records documenting their sterilization. Additionally, some individuals have been denied compensation because their procedures, such as endometrial ablation, are not considered sterilizing procedures under the program’s criteria. Furthermore, proving their fertility status after the procedures has been problematic for some applicants, particularly those who were incarcerated during their childbearing years.
To apply for compensation, eligible individuals can visit the California Victims Compensations Board website and submit an application online or through mail. Documentation of the sterilization is not required at the time of application. Instead, it becomes the responsibility of the state to locate the necessary records. It is advised to provide as much information as possible regarding the incident, including the procedure the victim believed they were undergoing versus what was actually performed. The California Coalition for Women Prisoners can provide guidance and support to survivors who are or have been incarcerated.
The compensation board aims to make initial payments within 60 days of confirming an applicant’s eligibility. Depending on the number of applications received, there may be a second payment in the future. Any remaining program funds will be evenly disbursed to qualified recipients by March 31, 2024, after processing all applications and making initial payments.
California’s efforts to address the dark chapter of forced sterilizations demonstrate a commitment to rectify past injustices and provide reparations to those affected. By offering compensation, the state acknowledges its role in perpetuating harm and seeks to restore dignity and justice to the survivors. Although challenges remain, raising awareness about the program and providing assistance to applicants can ensure that more victims receive the reparations they deserve.
Contact the California Victim Compensation Board at 1-800-777-9229 or email FISCP@victims.ca.gov for further assistance.
