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In a historic move, South Dakota Governor Sally Johnson signed into law a groundbreaking civil rights bill on July 23, 2025, ushering in a new era of equality and justice for all residents of the state. The legislation, known as the South Dakota Civil Rights Act, prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, and other protected characteristics in employment, housing, public accommodations, and education.Governor Johnson, who has been a vocal advocate for civil rights throughout her tenure, hailed the bill as a significant step forward for the state. "Today, we are making a clear statement that discrimination has no place in South Dakota," she said during a signing ceremony at the state capitol. "This legislation reflects our shared values of equality, diversity, and inclusion, and I am proud to sign it into law."The South Dakota Civil Rights Act is the result of years of advocacy and grassroots organizing by civil rights groups, community leaders, and concerned citizens. Among its key provisions are the establishment of a state civil rights commission to investigate and address complaints of discrimination, as well as the implementation of affirmative action programs to promote diversity and inclusion in state agencies and contractors.The passage of the bill comes at a time of increasing attention to civil rights issues in South Dakota, with recent incidents of discrimination and bias drawing widespread condemnation and calls for action. Advocates hope that the new law will help to prevent future acts of discrimination and provide a legal recourse for those who have been victimized.In a statement, the South Dakota Civil Rights Coalition praised the legislation as a "long-overdue victory for equality and justice." "The South Dakota Civil Rights Act represents a significant milestone in our ongoing fight for civil rights and social justice," the group said. "We commend Governor Johnson and the state legislature for their leadership in enacting this critical legislation, and we look forward to its positive impact on the lives of all South Dakotans."As the South Dakota Civil Rights Act takes effect, state officials are preparing to educate the public about its provisions and ensure compliance with its anti-discrimination mandates. Training programs for employers, landlords, educators, and other stakeholders are being developed to raise awareness of the law and promote a culture of respect and diversity in the state.With the signing of the South Dakota Civil Rights Act, Governor Johnson and the state legislature have taken a bold step toward safeguarding the rights and dignity of all South Dakot