Bill for Equity for Asian American, Hmong American and Pacific Islander Students Passes

With much support from WEAC members, Senate Bill 240, known as the Asian American and Pacific Islander History Bill, passed the Wisconsin Senate unanimously this week.

The law will amend current law and add “Hmong Americans and Asian Americans” to the list of groups that schools are required to include in teaching lessons.

WEAC recommended passage of the bill and used the organizations communications vehicles to encourage members to email and call their state Senators and Assembly Representatives to urge support. The bill was also supported by organizations that advocate for Asian American and Pacific Islander inclusion and anti-discrimination.

“Our state’s thousands of Hmong and Asian American students deserve to be heard and recognized,” WEAC President Peggy Wirtz-Olsen said. “And all the students in our state will benefit from learning about the many contributions Hmong and Asian American people have made throughout history. This bill is long overdue.”