CA: State Senate passes FAIR Education Act

The California State Senate passed a bill that would approval inclusion of LGBT contributions to California state history.

Studies have shown that when LGBT contributions are included in the history lessons that shaped California, students are more likely to be more tolerant and bullying decreases in schools.

From Equality California: The FAIR Education Act would bring classroom instruction into alignment with existing non-discrimination laws in California and would add LGBT to the existing list of underrepresented cultural and ethnic groups, which are covered by current law related to inclusion in textbooks and other instructional materials in schools. By including fair and accurate information about LGBT people and history in instructional materials, SB 48 will improve student safety, reduce bullying, enrich the learning experiences of all students, and promote an atmosphere of safety and respect in California schools.

“We thank the Senate for recognizing the need to educate students about the historic contributions of LGBT leaders to California and the struggle for LGBT equality,” said Jim Carroll, interim executive director of Equality California. “This legislation will ensure all students understand the diversity of our state and its history, and it will foster greater awareness, respect and safer schools for all students.”

Today, most textbooks don't include any LGBT contributions to society or any account of the LGBT civil rights movement.

The bill now heads to the state Assembly rules committee.

Stay tuned!