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Assemblywoman Haider Statement on New Laws to Include Asian American & Pacific Islander History in K-12 Education

On Tuesday, Governor Phil Murphy signed two Democrat-sponsored measures into law that aim to deepen students’ cultural understanding of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) history and heritage.

One law (formerly bill A-6100/S-4021) will require the curriculum of students in grades K-12 to include lessons on the history and contributions of the AAPI community as part of the implementation of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Social Studies. The second law (formerly bill A-3369/S-3764) will create the Commission on Asian American Heritage in the Department of Education to assist schools throughout the state with the implementation of cultural and educational programs associated with individuals of Asian and Asian American descent.

Assemblywoman Shama Haider (D-Bergen) issued the following statement:

“Today’s bill signing is a step in continuing to embrace the diversity of New Jersey. Promoting and uplifting different voices is a start but not the end of ensuring inclusivity and equity in this state. As a Pakistani American, I look forward to continuing the fight for the AAPI community through advocacy and legislation.”