California NOW was formed to take action to bring women into full participation in every aspect of American political, social and economic life and institutions. Full participation includes, but is not limited to, equal rights and responsibilities in all aspects of citizenship, public service, employment, education, and family life, and includes freedom from discrimination because of actual or perceived race, ethnicity, national origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, parenthood or any other category protected by federal and/or state laws.