Connecticut will soon become one of the first states in the nation to require public schools to teach Asian American studies.
The bill passed by the legislator mandates Asian American Pacific Islander Studies to be incorporated into the social studies curriculum, reports the Hartford Courant.
It also sets aside $100,000 to fund a coordinator who will oversee the curriculum in the Department of Education.
“I’m over the moon,” said Mike Keo, a parent with the AAPI educators group, Make Us Visible. “To be in this place where children can hear and see different stories reflected on joy, on the different aspects of our experiences, makes me feel happy.”
The bill now awaits final approval from Gov. . Ned Lamont.
LATEST STORIES
According to Asia Matters for America, Connecticut Senators Derek Slap, Tony Hwang, Saud Anwar and Catherine A. Osten introduced SB 678 in reaction to the rise in anti-Asian hate.
“When I interact with the Asian American community in our state, there is fear and concern…We need to use education as the first tool to help people be inclusive and respectful,” Anwar said.
Ohio, California, New York, and Florida are also considering taking similar action in their states, following the lead of Illinois where the governor approved a similar measure in 2020.
That same year, Connecticut Governor Lamont announced his state would require the teaching of African American and Latino studies.
AsAmNews has Asian America in its heart. We’re an all-volunteer effort of dedicated staff and interns. Check out our new Instagram account. Go to our Twitter feed and Facebook page for more content. Please consider interning, joining our staff, or submitting a story, or making a contribution.
