Mississippi House Bill HB595

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

African-American Studies and Racial Diversity; require SDE to develop curriculum for implementation in public high school.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will reshape the public high school education framework in Mississippi by formally recognizing African-American studies and racial diversity as integral components of the curriculum. The bill aims to deepen students' understanding of important historical events such as slavery, the Civil Rights Movements, and cultural milestones including the Harlem Renaissance. This educational initiative is expected to enrich students' perspectives on American history and the contributions of diverse populations, contributing to a more inclusive educational environment.

Summary

House Bill 595 mandates the Mississippi State Board of Education to fully implement a comprehensive curriculum focused on African-American studies and racial diversity for public high schools, specifically for students in grades 9 through 12. The bill requires that this curriculum be offered as an optional elective, allowing students the opportunity to explore the contributions of African Americans to society, history, and culture. The proposal is set to enhance educational offerings and foster a greater understanding of diversity and historical contexts within the educational framework.

Contention

While supporters argue that HB595 is a significant step towards addressing the educational gap in representation and the history of African Americans, opposing voices may raise concerns about the implementation of such a curriculum. Some critics may highlight potential political controversies surrounding the inclusion of racial topics in education or raise questions about local control in determining curriculum changes. Nevertheless, the discussions around this bill are pivotal in shaping educational policies in Mississippi, particularly regarding how history and diversity are taught in schools.