Promotion of race and sex stereotyping or scapegoating; oppose and condemn use of divisive concepts and theories that propagate such.
Impact
If adopted, HC22 would serve to articulate the state legislature's position against education materials and policies perceived to promote racial or gender discrimination. This could have broad implications on educational curricula across public institutions in Mississippi, especially concerning how race and gender issues are addressed. By disallowing the inclusion of concepts deemed divisive, the resolution aims to prevent the implementation of theories that suggest inherent superiority based on race or gender.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 22 (HC22) is a legislative measure affirming Mississippi's strong opposition to the promotion of race and sex stereotyping, as well as the use of divisive concepts and theories that foster such stereotyping. The resolution emphasizes core American principles such as equality and the belief that all individuals should be treated equally, regardless of race or sex. The bill references historic documents such as the Declaration of Independence and the Gettysburg Address to reinforce its messages of equality and liberty.
Contention
The bill's language criticizes critical race theory and associated ideologies, positioning them as contrary to the principles enshrined in both the U.S. Constitution and the moral fabric of society as defined by religious beliefs. Critics of HC22 may argue that this resolution could serve to stifle important discussions around systemic inequalities and historical injustices. Concerns have been raised that prohibiting the teaching of such theories could undermine educational initiatives aimed at fostering understanding and reconciliation in a diverse society.
Protect Equality And Civics Education Act of 2025 or the PEACE Act of 2025This bill prohibits the use of federal funding made available for the American History and Civics Education program to fund a curriculum, teaching, or counseling that promotes a divisive concept (e.g., race stereotyping or scapegoating) under the priorities noticed in the Department of Education's proposed rule titled Proposed Priorities-American History and Civics Education, published on April 19, 2021.