Senator Kaplan Rallies with AAPI Community for AAPI History Education Bill

Photo caption: On August 5, 2022, Senator Anna M. Kaplan (D-North Hills) joined Korean American Civic Empowerment (KACE), Rainbow PUSH Coalition, and the Korean American Sanctuary Church Network (KASCN) for a rally in support of the New York State Asian American History Education Bill, which seeks to combat Asian hate through improved education. The bill, which is sponsored by Senator John Liu and co-sponsored by Senator Kaplan, would require elementary and high schools across New York State to provide instruction in Asian American history and civic impact. The bill seeks to combat the lack of understanding and knowledge of Asian Americans, which has contributed to the recent increase in hate crimes against people of Asian descent, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. Teaching students about the historical contributions of Asian Americans will help foster respect and understanding of Asian Americans, and allow Asian Americans to see themselves reflected as an important part of the history and culture of this country.

Senator Kaplan said "Asian American history is American history, and it's important that every student learn it. At a time when extremists and white supremacists are trying to tell us that diversity is a bad thing, we reject the idea that diversity shouldn't be taught and celebrated in our schools, and we're rallying for action because more needs to be done to ensure our kids learn about the history and contributions of Asian Americans. The more we know about our rich history, and the better we understand the journey of our neighbors, the closer we can be as a community. It's time to empower our community with knowledge, and fight hate together with education."

Photo credit: Dami Choi