Hawaii Senate Bill SB138

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/23
• Refer: 1/20/23

Caption

Relating To Education.

Impact

Upon passage, the bill mandates that the Board of Education incorporate this unit of instruction into its curriculum beginning with the 2023-2024 school year. It assigns the Superintendent of Education the responsibility to produce and distribute instructional materials that guide the educational content, ensuring that compliance with these requirements is monitored through annual visits. By emphasizing the importance of Asian American history, SB138 aims to empower students, foster pride in their diverse ethnic identities, and nurture a sense of civic responsibility.

Summary

SB138 is a legislative bill that aims to enhance the education system in Hawaii by integrating a dedicated unit of instruction that focuses on Asian American history into the K-12 curriculum. The motivation behind this bill is rooted in an observed increase in discrimination against Asians, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the need for a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of Asian American contributions and experiences in the United States. This bill seeks to confront and educate students about the historical injustices faced by Asian American communities, including laws like the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act that perpetuated discrimination.

Contention

The introduction of this bill gives rise to discussions about how history is taught in schools and the political implications of incorporating specific narratives. Supporters argue that teaching Asian American history is essential for combating stereotypes and fostering understanding amidst increasing racial tensions. However, detractors may express concern about the politicization of education and the resources needed to implement this curriculum. The success of this initiative will depend on its acceptance by educational authorities and the overall effectiveness of the training provided to educators tasked with delivering this content.