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Teaching Asian Pacific American History Act
12/15/2023, 3:57 PM
Summary of Bill HR 3188
The bill aims to address the lack of representation and education on the history and contributions of Asian Pacific Americans in the United States. By incorporating this history into school curriculums, students will have a more comprehensive understanding of the diverse cultural and historical experiences of Asian Pacific Americans.
If passed, the Teaching Asian Pacific American History Act would provide funding and resources for schools to develop and implement curriculum that includes Asian Pacific American history. This would help to ensure that students are exposed to a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of American history. Supporters of the bill argue that teaching Asian Pacific American history is essential for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in education. By recognizing the contributions and struggles of Asian Pacific Americans, students can develop a more nuanced understanding of American society and history. Opponents of the bill may argue that it is unnecessary or that it could detract from other important subjects in the curriculum. However, proponents believe that teaching Asian Pacific American history is crucial for creating a more inclusive and equitable educational experience for all students. Overall, the Teaching Asian Pacific American History Act seeks to address the gaps in education and promote a more comprehensive understanding of American history. If passed, this bill could have a significant impact on how Asian Pacific American history is taught in schools across the country.
Congressional Summary of HR 3188
Teaching Asian Pacific American History Act
This bill requires entities (e.g., institutions of higher education, libraries, and museums), in order to be eligible for certain grants administered by the Department of Education (ED), to include Asian Pacific American history in their teaching of American history. It also requires Asian Pacific American history to be included in tests administered by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP).
Specifically, the bill mandates the inclusion of Asian Pacific American history as a required component of American history for such entities to be eligible for American History and Civics Academies' competitive grants. These grants support the establishment of (1) Presidential Academies for Teachers of American History and Civics, which offer workshops to teachers of American history and civics to strengthen their knowledge and prepare them to teach in these subjects; and (2) Congressional Academies for Students of American History and Civics, which support high school students in developing an understanding of these subjects. (Currently, Asian Pacific American history is not a required component of American history for either academy.)
In addition, ED must give priority to grant applicants that align their activities with programs and resources of the Smithsonian Institution's Asian Pacific American Center.
The bill also requires the inclusion of Asian Pacific American history in tests administered by the NAEP, which measures student academic achievement in various subjects.
