Are K-12 students across the country being taught complete American history? Research has shown just how few states include Asian American history as part of their K-12 social studies standards—some do not have any at all.
In response to COVID-fueled anti-Asian hate, the movement for the inclusion of Asian American history became widespread. In 2021, Illinois became the first state in the nation to require Asian American history to be taught in public schools. Since then, several states have passed laws requiring Asian American history. But laws alone do not guarantee our histories will be taught responsibly. It was community-led, cross-racial efforts in Illinois that helped pass legislation and also ensure its implementation into K-12 classrooms.
At the same time, inclusive learning is under scrutiny. Books centering marginalized characters, including Asian American and LGBTQ+, are being banned, while African American studies and Palestinian history are being removed from curriculum. It is more important than ever for AAPIs to advocate for inclusive curriculum in solidarity with allied communities of color and marginalized communities.
Join us as we bring together local leaders across the country who have advocated for the inclusion of AAPI history as part of broader racial justice efforts. We will highlight the creative strategies they have used in various states and political climates to ensure that the enactment and implementation of curriculum mandates advance racial justice priorities—in education policy and beyond.
Guest Speakers:
Grace Pai, Executive Director, Asian Americans Advancing Justice |Chicago
Sookyung Oh, Director, Hamkae Center
Lily Trieu, Executive Director, Asian Texans for Justice
Estella Owoimaha-Church, Executive Director, Empowering Pacific Islander Communities
Join us on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at 2:00–3:30PM ET.
