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How Proposition 187 Transformed California

Activists for and against Proposition 187 rallied in Los Angeles in 1996, after it was thrown out by the courts. Political analysts say tough rhetoric and laws targeting undocumented immigrants could now have lasting political consequences for the national Republican party.
Frank Wiese AP
Activists for and against Proposition 187 rallied in Los Angeles in 1996, after it was thrown out by the courts. Political analysts say tough rhetoric and laws targeting undocumented immigrants could now have lasting political consequences for the national Republican party.
Friday marks the 25th anniversary of the passage of Proposition 187 and a new podcast by The Los Angeles Times and Futuro Studios examines its legacy.

Twenty-five years ago, an overwhelming majority of California voters approved Proposition 187.

The measure, also known as the "Save Our State" initiative, aimed to prohibit people living in California illegally from receiving medical, educational and other social services.

After it passed, most of the initiative was blocked by the courts. Nevertheless, the effects of Prop. 187 are still being felt today.

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A new podcast by The Los Angeles Times and Futuro Studios examines Prop. 187's political legacy — from galvanizing Latinos to turning California blue.

Gustavo Arellano, a Los Angeles Times columnist and host of the podcast, "The Battle of 187," joined Midday Edition on Monday to talk about Prop. 187's legacy and San Diego's role in shaping California's anti-immigrant initiative.