All persons within the jurisdiction of this state are free and equal, and no matter what their sex, race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship, primary language, or immigration status are entitled to the full and equal accommodations, advantages , facilities , privileges, or services in all business establishments of every kind whatsoever.
The Unruh Civil Rights Act, enacted in 1959 and named for its author, Jesse M. Unruh, regulates equal accommodations for all types of business establishments. This year, the Unruh Act celebrates its 60th anniversary. This article discusses the historical context, current application, and future developments regarding this preeminent civil rights law.