Hawaii Senate Bill SR115

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/11/22
• Refer: 3/16/22
• Report Pass: 3/30/22
• Passed: 3/31/22

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Education To Develop A Filipino History, Culture, And Identity Social Studies Course For High School Students.

Impact

If enacted, SR115 would mandate the incorporation of Filipino history and cultural education within the existing curriculum standards in Hawaii. It aims to address the significant gap in representation of Filipino educators and the lack of a formal curriculum on Asian American history, especially given that Filipino students constitute the largest ethnic group in Hawaii's public schools. The development of this course is anticipated to lead to more inclusive educational practices that recognize and celebrate the diverse backgrounds of students, potentially increasing engagement and academic performance.

Summary

Senate Resolution 115 (SR115) requests the Department of Education in Hawaii to develop a social studies course focusing on Filipino history, culture, and identity for high school students. The resolution emerges from a context of rising anti-Asian sentiment and a significant Filipino population in Hawaii that remains underrepresented in educational curricula. Supporters of the bill argue that integrating this course into the educational framework will enhance awareness and understanding of Filipino contributions, helping to foster a sense of pride and identity among Filipino students and decreasing incidents of discrimination and violence against Asian Americans.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SR115 appears to be largely positive among supporters, who view it as a necessary step for equity in education. Advocates assert that teaching Filipino history will empower students and validate their identities. However, there could be contention regarding the implementation of new curricula and potential pushback from those who oppose curriculum changes based on political or ideological grounds. Overall, the resolution is seen as a proactive approach to enrich Hawaii’s educational content and promote multicultural understanding.

Contention

While SR115 generally has been supported, the broad implications of adding new educational material can sometimes face opposition related to concerns over curriculum standards, funding, and teacher recruitment. Critics may argue about the practicality of developing new courses within an already packed academic schedule, and how educational resources can be allocated efficiently. Nonetheless, the resolution's proponents maintain that this is a crucial initiative for addressing historical inequities in education related to Asian American narratives.