S5963A

The New York State Senate passed legislation requiring the teaching of Asian-American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) history in public schools, with 61 senators voting in favor. Senate Print 5963A, sponsored by Sen. Liu, aims to address what supporters characterized as the historical invisibility of Asian-Americans in American education and society. During floor debate, Sen. Liu cited survey data indicating that 58 percent of Americans cannot name a single Asian-American, arguing that education about Asian-American contributions to American history is essential to combating discrimination and hate. Sen. Chu noted that her high school daughter has not learned about Asian-Americans in America despite studying Asia, underscoring gaps in current curricula. The bill takes effect July 1. The vote came during a Senate celebration of AAPI Heritage Month, which included a commemoration of Fred Korematsu Day and recognition of local Asian-American figures.

The New York State Senate unanimously passed legislation requiring the inclusion of Asian-American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander history in public school curricula, with a 62-0 vote on Senate Print 5963A, sponsored by Sen. Liu. The bill aims to combat rising anti-Asian hate and violence by educating students about Asian-American contributions to the nation and countering harmful stereotypes. Sen. Liu argued that education is essential to make Asian-Americans less invisible in society and teach students that Asian-Americans have helped build the country. Sen. Chu, a cosponsor, emphasized that the measure responds to three years of intense anti-Asian hate and extreme violence, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. Sen. Martins noted the richness of Asian culture and history, which predates European history, and called for recognition in the education system. Sen. Jackson offered personal testimony about his Asian father, supporting the bill's goal of ensuring schools reflect the diversity of their student populations. The bill takes effect July 1.