Improvements to New York's Holocaust education will head to Hochul's desk

A survey of the state of New York's Holocaust education curriculum would be required under a bill being sent to Gov. Kathy Hochul's desk after the measure gained full passage in the state Legislature on Thursday. 

It was introduced in response to a 2020 study by the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany that found New Yorkers age 18 to 39 lacked knowledge of the Holocaust. 

The survey found more than half of New Yorkers in the age group, 58%, could not identify a concentration camp, and nearly a third believed the Holocaust is a myth or exaggerated, while 60% were unaware six million Jews were killed. 

"With antisemitism on the rise, and Holocaust misinformation exploding around the world, it’s never been more important that we learn the lessons of the Holocaust, and ensure our next generation knows about our history, no matter how dark or difficult the conversation may be," said state Sen. Anna Kaplan, who sponsored the measure with Assemblywoman Nily Rozic. "It’s why I’ve fought tirelessly to pass the Holocaust Education Bill, and I’m thrilled to be able to pass it today so that we can ensure we Never Forget." 

The survey would be conducted of the state's schools to review how they are teaching the Holocaust. A corrective action plan would be required for school districts that fail to meet state standards.