The Unruh Civil Rights Act, codified in California Civil Code § 51, is a landmark state law in California prohibiting discrimination by all business establishments within the state. It ensures that all persons, regardless of sex, race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship, primary language, immigration status, or political affiliation, are entitled to the full and equal accommodations, advantages, facilities, privileges, or services in all business establishments of every kind whatsoever. The Act is broadly interpreted to include any arbitrary discrimination and provides for monetary damages (treble actual damages, but not less than $4,000) for each violation, in addition to attorney's fees and costs. It is a cornerstone of civil rights protection in California, extending beyond federal protections in many aspects. The law prohibits discrimination by businesses based on protected characteristics, including political affiliation.