Albany, NY – In a historic step closer toward inclusive education of AANHPI curriculum, Assemblymember Grace Lee passed her bill, the AANHPI Education Equity Act (A8463), through the New York State Assembly’s Education Committee. The bill passed unanimously and has now been referred to the Ways & Means Committee. Assemblymember Grace Lee is hopeful that this bill will be voted on and passed before the end of this year’s legislative session.

The AANHPI Education Equity Act authorizes the Commissioner of Education to conduct a statewide survey on how AANHPI history is currently taught in New York schools. It also codifies the creation of an AANHPI History Advisory Committee, composed of experts in AANHPI history and curriculum, to provide recommendations on high-quality K-12 instructional materials and strategies to expand and strengthen public education on AANHPI history. This legislation affirms that AANHPI stories are American stories – and that students of all backgrounds deserve an education that reflects the full diversity of the state’s history.

"This bill is about visibility, equity, and justice,” said Assemblymember Grace Lee, “For too long, AANHPI communities have been erased from the classroom. Moving this bill forward through committee is a powerful signal that New York is ready to lead the way in creating an inclusive education system that affirms all our students."

This milestone comes at a time of rising anti-Asian hate and continued calls for educational reform that reflects the lived experiences of marginalized communities. The bill’s passage in committee brings it one step closer to becoming law – and one step closer to ensuring that every child in New York sees themselves in the stories they’re taught.