The Colorado State Board of Education voted 4-3 to include the histories and social contributions of LGBTQ+, Indigenous, Latinx, African American, Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Native Hawaiian communities in state Social Studies Standards. This was made possible by a vast intersectional coalition of organizations, parents, youth, and educators across the state who came together across our differences, to win for all students! Brittni Laura Hernandez of A Queer Endeavor led our efforts in the coalition work. Historically, there exists a gap between policy and implementation. A Queer Endeavor is proud to continue our work of supporting districts and teachers to implement this policy and provide training and resources around this historic change. We invite all educators and districts to reach out for support. We’re excited to continue the coalition work to support you and your communities.
The State Board of Education voted to follow the law. House Bill 19-1192 "The Inclusion of American Minorities in Teaching Civil Government" was already on the books. This was passed by 3 latina lawmakers in 2019. Colorado is 1 of only 7 states that has a curriculum bill like HB19-1192. This bill provides a tremendous opportunity for Colorado schools to be safe, welcoming, and humanizing for all students!
When it comes to including LGBTQ+ communities, this is not about sex. Pk-3 standards are all about families, communities and neighborhoods. This is about reading stories and creating an environment where all families, communities, and neighborhoods are reflected
Community coalitions work! Thank you to the students who testified and shared their stories. Thank you to all of the communities, organizations, parents, families, and educators who came together to make this possible. Thank you to the board members who voted in favor, especially Lisa Escarcega who proposed the amendments. Thank you to anyone who wrote, emailed, testified, showed up to meetings, and supported these efforts from afar.
In the News
Chalkbeat Colorado: Inclusive social studies standards pass Colorado State Board
9 News: State school board approves new social studies standards