Wisconsin becomes the most recent state to require K-12 schools teach Asian American history

Last week, Gov. Tony Evers signed new, bipartisan legislation, Assembly Bill 232, now 2023 Wisconsin Act 266, that will require K-12 schools to include education about the contributions and history of Asian Americans in Wisconsin. Although Wisconsin is not the first state to require its school system include Asian American history, its legislation is unique in that it specifically mandates the curriculum include Hmong American history.

“The Hmong and Asian American communities are a critical part of our state’s history, culture, economy, and our future. It’s important that we celebrate our shared histories and honor the people who help make Wisconsin the state it is today,” Gov. Evers said in a press release. “I’ve been proud to sign several key pieces of bipartisan legislation into law to recognize the contributions Hmong and Asian American folks have made to our state and our country, and this bill builds upon those efforts, ensuring the histories and stories of Hmong and Asian American communities are part of state curriculum for future generations.”

The inclusion of Asian American curriculum follows laws that already require Wisconsin’s K-12 schools to teach Black American, Hispanic American, and Native American history.

“Today, Wisconsin is home to the third-largest Hmong population in the United States. The vibrant and distinct cultures of Hmong and Asian American communities in Wisconsin—from families who have lived in Wisconsin for generations to recent immigrants and refugees—are a fundamental part of the state’s identity,” the Governor’s press release continued. “Members of Wisconsin’s Hmong and Asian American communities have greatly contributed to the state’s rich history, culture, economy, and tradition of public service, and Act 266 works to ensure the stories and significant histories of these communities are preserved and taught for generations to come.”