Mississippi House Bill HB1497

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/22
• Refer: 1/17/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

The Teaching Racial and Universal Equality (TRUE) Act; enact to prohibit critical race theory from inclusion in public school curriculum.

Impact

If enacted, HB1497 will put strict limitations on the content that can be included in educational programs, placing significant power with the State Board of Education and school governing authorities to enforce compliance. Schools found in violation may face state funding cuts, which may heavily impact their operations and ability to provide a comprehensive education. The bill emphasizes adherence to a narrative of impartiality in historical discussions, leading to broader implications for how subjects such as race and inequality are taught in Mississippi's classrooms.

Summary

House Bill 1497, known as the Teaching Racial and Universal Equality (TRUE) Act, aims to regulate the educational curriculum by prohibiting the promotion and inclusion of 'divisive concepts' in public school instruction. This includes ideas suggesting that any race or sex is intrinsically superior or inferior to another. The bill outlines specific definitions of divisive concepts and restricts teachers and educational institutions from utilizing instructional materials that contain or promote these ideas, which are largely related to discussions about systemic racism and sexism.

Contention

The bill has generated substantial debate among legislators, educators, and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that the bill protects students from being subjected to instructional material that could induce feelings of guilt or discomfort based on their race. Critics, on the other hand, see it as an attempt to whitewash history and limit essential discussions on race and inclusion in education. The chilling effect on teaching practices may suppress the necessary exploration of historical and contemporary issues related to race and equality that are crucial for developing an informed and critically-thinking populace.