African-American Studies and Racial Diversity; require SDE to develop curriculum for implementation in public high school.
Impact
If enacted, this bill will significantly influence state educational standards by incorporating African-American perspectives and contributions into the overall curriculum. It seeks to fulfill gaps in historical education by presenting a more inclusive narrative that acknowledges and educates students about the complex socio-political realities experienced by African Americans throughout history. The law could reshape curriculum guidelines, necessitating training and resources for educators to adequately teach this material within the Mississippi Social Studies Framework.
Summary
House Bill 65 mandates the Mississippi State Board of Education to develop a comprehensive curriculum focusing on African-American Studies and racial diversity to be implemented in public high schools for students in Grades 9 through 12. The bill aims to enhance students' understanding of the historical contributions of people of African descent in America, placing emphasis on the importance of diversity within American culture. The course is required to integrate a chronological framework of African and African-American history, providing a broad examination of key historical events and movements, including slavery, the Civil Rights Movement, and significant cultural periods such as the Harlem Renaissance.
Contention
While proponents of HB 65 argue that it is a necessary step towards greater inclusivity and understanding of racial diversity in education, there is potential for contention surrounding its implementation. Concerns may arise regarding the extent of materials and perspectives deemed appropriate for the curriculum, as well as pushback from groups resistant to the inclusion of certain historical interpretations. Critics fear that the bill could provoke debates over academic freedom and the prioritization of diverse narratives in state educational settings.
A resolution expressing support for the recognition of the week of September 25 through October 1, 2023, as "Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Week".
A resolution expressing support for the recognition of September 23, 2024, to September 29, 2024, as "Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Week".
Expressing support for the recognition of September 23, 2024, to September 29, 2024, as "Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Week".
Expressing support for the recognition of September 25, 2023, to October 1, 2023, as "Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions Week".