California Governor Gavin Newsom has reappointed historian, educator, and agriculturalist Rajan Gill to the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA), reaffirming his long-standing role in shaping state policies that impact one of the state’s most diverse communities.
Gill, an Indian American and a respected professor of history at Yuba College, was first appointed to the Commission in 2013 by then-Governor Jerry Brown.
Over the past decade, he has served as a vital advisor to both the Governor and the Legislature, focusing on issues ranging from cultural representation and public policy equity to improving access for underserved Asian and Pacific Islander (API) populations.
A Multi-Faceted Public Servant
Gill’s reappointment reflects the state’s continued confidence in his ability to bridge academic insight with community-driven policy.
At Yuba College, where he serves as a faculty member, Gill has played a pivotal role in student development through initiatives like the Umoja and Puente programs, which support historically underrepresented students.
He has also contributed to institutional governance via the Yuba College Academic Senate.
His academic background is deeply rooted in studying immigrant identity and historical movements.
Gill holds a Master of Arts in History from the University of California, Santa Cruz, where his research examined the complexities of identity and activism among California’s Punjabi Sikh immigrants in the early 20th century.
His thesis, “Revolution or Assimilation: Understanding the Identity of the Punjabi Sikh Diaspora in California during the Early Twentieth Century,” has been praised for its scholarly depth and cultural relevance.
He also earned his Bachelor’s degree in U.S. History and Middle Eastern and South Asian Studies from UC Davis.
Agriculture, Film, and Community Advocacy
In addition to his academic contributions, Gill is the managing partner of Gill Ranches, where he oversees the cultivation of over 700 acres of peaches, prunes, walnuts, and almonds in California’s fertile Central Valley.
His agricultural expertise complements his understanding of the socio-economic issues facing rural and immigrant communities across the state.
Since 2024, Gill has expanded his public engagement as a filmmaker with Neena Filmhouse, a creative platform that aims to document and uplift stories from immigrant and marginalized communities.
His artistic endeavors add yet another layer to his multi-disciplinary approach to advocacy.
Championing API Representation
As a Commissioner on CAPIAA, Gill’s priorities have included amplifying the voices of California’s Asian and Pacific Islander American communities, pushing for greater cultural literacy among policymakers, and advocating for equitable access to state resources.
Gill’s reappointment ensures that the Commission will continue to benefit from a leader who combines historical perspective, cultural empathy, and policy acumen.
“Rajan Gill brings a unique blend of experience in education, agriculture, and public service. His deep roots in community engagement and academic research make him an invaluable asset to CAPIAA and to the people of California,” said a spokesperson from the Governor’s office.
As California continues to face challenges related to representation, equity, and inclusion, Gill’s continued service signals a strong commitment to ensuring all voices, especially those from API communities, are heard and represented at the highest levels of state governance.
