Asian American history to be included in curriculum for Wisconsin schools 

MADISON – The state legislature passed a bill requiring K-12 public schools to include Asian American and Hmong American history and contributions within curricula across the state. 

As of late March, the legislation was headed to the desk of Gov. Tony Evers, who was expected to sign the bill into law.  

The bill received bipartisan support and recognition for fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in education, according to a news release from The Asian American Pacific Islander Coalition of Wisconsin. Coalition advocates also helped work toward the passage of Wisconsin’s Holocaust and genocide education mandate in 2021, said Andrea Bernstein, associate director of the Jewish Community Relations Council. 

“By requiring schools to incorporate the rich tapestry of Asian American and Hmong American narratives into their instructional programs, Wisconsin demonstrates a commitment to providing all our students with a comprehensive understanding of the nation’s diverse heritage,” said Lorna Young, chair of the AAPI Coalition of Wisconsin Education Committee.  

Asian American experiences are often overlooked in traditional education, according to the news release. “By integrating Asian American and Hmong American history into K-12 curriculum, the state is not only honoring the diverse identities of its students but also fostering a more inclusive learning environment that reflects the true breadth of Wisconsin communities,” said E Her Vang, Education Committee Member of the Coalition.  

The Coalition expressed gratitude for the support of Rep. Patrick Snyder (D), Sen. Cory Tomczyk (R), Rep. Francesca Hong (D) and Rep. Katrina Shankland (D).  

The Asian American Pacific Islander Coalition of Wisconsin unites AAPI leaders throughout the state, serving as a conduit for AAPI communities and local, municipal and state resources to come together to stand against hate and racism, according to the news release. Born out of a rise in anti-Asian sentiments tied to the COVID-19 pandemic, the coalition seeks to inspire action in and across all communities by confronting racism, connecting resources, and serving those affected by injustice.