Hirschauer-Backed Legislation to Teach Asian American History Signed into Law

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – To ensure education in Illinois reflects the diversity of the state, state Rep. Maura Hirschauer, D-Batavia, sponsored a new state law that requires Asian American history to be added to the school curriculum.

“This historic measure will make Illinois the first state in the country to require Asian American history to be taught in schools,” said Hirschauer. “We are in an unfortunate time when people of Asian descent are facing discrimination solely based on their ethnicity. This bill will not only work to combat discrimination against Asian Americans, but also ensure that people of every background in Illinois are recognized for their contributions in national and world history.” 

The Hirschauer-backed House Bill 376, also known as the Teaching Equitable Asian American History Act, was recently signed into law by Gov. J.B. Pritzker after receiving strong bipartisan support in both chambers of the General Assembly. Starting with the 2022-2023 school year, all public elementary and high school students will be required to complete a unit on Asian American history, including the history of Asian Americans in the Midwest and Illinois.

“Asian American history is American history,” said Hirschauer. “This legislation will not only better educate our youth, but also give Asian American students the chance to see their culture represented in the classroom. I am happy to see this much-needed legislation signed into law.”

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