APAPA Featured in the Sacramento Bee: “Our History Matters”

Published on January 4, 2024

Expanded teachings of Asian American and Pacific Islander history may be coming to Sacramento K-12 classrooms. The state’s Instructional Quality Commission, which is responsible for developing and recommending curriculum for schools throughout California, will consider adding content highlighting Asian American, Pacific Islander and Native Hawaiian communities in its next revision of the statewide history-social science curriculum. While there is no exact date for implementation, the development of an educational framework can take about three years, according to the California Department of Education.

Assemblyman Mike Fong, D-Alhambra, said this law, known as Assembly Bill 1354, will spotlight the societal contributions AAPI communities have made in California and the United States. “Asian American and Pacific Islander history is American history,” said Fong. “Education is so key to transforming minds and our communities, and that starts with our K-12 students.” This law will not only ensure AAPI history is told, but it will highlight “the more factual and accurate contributions” of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, said Fong, who authored this law last session. AB1354 was signed into law in September by Gov. Gavin Newsom. EDUCATION TO FIGHT ANTI-ASIAN HATE This law seeks to fight anti-Asian hate by presenting a more equitable and accurate history of AAPI groups in America. Supporters say the teachings will combat racism and hate crimes against these communities, which make up more than 15.5% of California’s population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.