In 2021, Illinois became the first state to mandate that Asian American history be taught in its public schools.

Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago, led by Grace Pai, was the leading organization that introduced and advocated for passage of the Illinois TEAACH Act. As part of this session, Grace will share more about Advancing Justice | Chicago’s coalition-building efforts, how they were able to secure bipartisan support for this landmark legislation, and what other leaders need to know to pursue similar legislation in their state.

We’ll delve into issues related to what histories are taught in schools, what histories are deemed “polarizing” and “politically charged,” and how educators can ensure that public school classrooms remain places where all children see their histories and lived experiences reflected and valued.

This is a campaign debrief session and is open only to EdLoC members.