Robert Hansen is a reporter with the Sacramento Observer who covers local politics, homelessness, police, racism in education, and other social issues in the Sacramento region.

Articles

Despite years of pledges to address systemic racism and discriminatory discipline practices, the most recent state data show that two school districts, Sacramento City Unified and Elk Grove Unified, continue to suspend Black students at some of the highest rates in California.

Like many Black teens across the country, Duchess-Angelica Wright struggles to maintain her mental health. As a young Black woman, a member of the LGBTQ community, and a former foster youth, she faces multiple layers of challenges and has attempted suicide three times. Recognizing that systemic barriers thwart many Black youth like Wright from seeking mental health care, community organizations are stepping In to provide support in trying to stem a swelling crisis.