The State Board of Education is now required to incorporate Latino and Hispanic American history into New Jersey Student Learning Standards for social studies and English language arts, thanks to a bill signed by Gov. Phil Murphy.
Under the law, the commissioner of education, in consultation with the Commission on Latino and Hispanic Heritage, will provide school districts with sample learning activities and resources that may be used to support this instructional requirement.
Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz (D-Newark), a sponsor of the bill, said the need is there.
“A study by Johns Hopkins University found that 87% of ‘key topics in Latino history’ are either left out of textbooks entirely or reduced to fewer than five sentences, leaving a profound gap in the story of America,” she said.
“Latinos have been at the forefront of shaping this country since its earliest days — fighting in every war, marching for civil rights, and using our talents to build businesses and drive the economy forward. Our children deserve to see that history reflected accurately and Latinos represented in exceptional spaces.
“This legislation will diversify our curriculum and shine a light on the contributions of Latinos — the artists, scientists, athletes, public servants, and countless others — who have left an indelible mark on our nation.”
State Sen. Brian Stack (D-West New York), a co-sponsor, agreed.
“Nearly one-quarter of New Jerseyans identify as Hispanic or Latino, as does a large portion of my district,” he said. “It is important for students to see themselves and the diverse community around them reflected in their school’s curriculum. Providing classroom instruction on Latino and Hispanic American history will only enrich New Jersey’s public schools even further.”
