Wisconsin bill would require that AAPI history be taught in public schools

Wisconsin Representative Francesca Hong

Wisconsin may be the third state to mandate the teaching of Asian American history, culture and contributions to United States.

A bipartisan group of legislators introduced legislation to update the state’s statutory educational goals to require “at all grade levels, an understanding of human relations, particularly with regard to…Hmong Americans and American Pacific Islander Desi Americans (APIDA),” according to a press release from the office of State Rep. Francesca Hong, one of the bipartisan group of lawmakers who introduced Assembly Bill 381 last summer

“The stories and experiences of these vast and diverse demographics are intrinsically linked with the story of Wisconsin, and this bill will help us ensure that is reflected in our classrooms. Hmong American and APIDA lives, cultures, and contributions to our state, nation, and local communities deserve this attention, commemoration, and respect,” Hong said in a statement.

If approved, Wisconsin would join Illinois and New Jersey in requiring the inclusion of Asian American history in its public schools. Other states considering adding curriculum to include Asian American and Pacific Islander topics include Ohio, New York, Florida and Connecticut.

Wisconsin is home to one of the largest Hmong American communities, refugees fleeing Vietnam and Laos when the the U.S. military left Vietnam.

“Our Hmong American and Asian Pacific Islander Desi American neighbors enrich our state with their presence and culture,” added Sen. Eric Wimberger. “Their stories are uniquely American, but often unheard, and our students will certainly benefit from learning about their experiences.”