Take Action: encourage more diversity in Texas Textbooks
URGENT ACTION BY 11/22/24
Introduction:
Now, it’s time to take action. Proposed curriculum changes by the State Board of Education (SBOE) risk transforming our public schools into platforms for promoting a single religious viewpoint, undermining the diversity that makes Texas strong.
As South Asians—one of the fastest-growing communities in Texas—we must stand together to demand a curriculum that reflects our state’s cultural, religious, and historical diversity. Every child deserves an education free from bias, grounded in truth, and inclusive of all perspectives.
Why This Matters:
Diversity in Education: Public schools must reflect Texas’ diverse communities. Prioritizing one faith over others in the curriculum marginalizes students from non-Christian backgrounds, including Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists.
Freedom of Religion: Teaching about religion is part of a well-rounded education, but no curriculum should impose religious beliefs or promote a single faith’s teachings.
Accuracy in History: The proposed curriculum is riddled with inaccuracies, disproportionately focuses on Christianity, and disregards the contributions of other faiths and cultures to our shared history.
Transparency: The State Board of Education (SBOE) must be honest with parents and stakeholders about the curriculum’s development process and content. Current proposals lack sufficient input from qualified educators and diverse communities.
How You Can Take Action:
1. Write to the SBOE
2. Call Your SBOE Members
3. Click here to let us know you submitted a response ( goal is 100 )
Your voice can make a difference. Use our email template below to share your concerns with SBOE members:
Subject: Make Textbooks more inclusive in Texas
Email Template:
Dear Members of the State Board of Education,
My name is [ your name, city],
Write a sentence or two about why you are concerned.
As South Asians living and contributing to the vibrant diversity of Texas, we are writing to express our deep concern about the proposed K-5 curriculum. While we recognize the importance of teaching about religion in history, the current curriculum does not fully reflect the diversity of our state and community, overwhelmingly focusing on Christianity while neglecting the contributions and histories of other religious groups.
South Asians are one of the fastest-growing communities in Texas, playing a vital role in shaping the state's cultural, economic, and educational success. However, a curriculum that lacks inclusivity undermines our ability to foster an environment that attracts and retains the critical talent Texas is known for—whether in medicine, technology, small business entrepreneurship, or global corporations.
In today’s competitive global economy, Texas must ensure that its public education system is world-class, equipping students to thrive in diverse and interconnected environments. By prioritizing one religious perspective over others, we risk sending a message that Texas does not value its rich cultural and religious diversity—a message that could drive away the very talent and resources that fuel our state's growth.
We kindly urge the State Board of Education to revise the curriculum to reflect the diverse cultural, religious, and historical realities of Texas. Inclusivity ensures that every child sees their history, identity, and values represented in their education. This fosters mutual respect, understanding, and the skills necessary for global leadership. Let’s create a world-class education system that honors the diversity that makes Texas exceptional.
Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to your leadership in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for all students in Texas.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
SBOE Contact info
Melissa Ortega
915-299-8293
Melissa.Ortega@tea.texas.gov
Marisa Perez-Diaz
210-294-6140
marisa.perez@sboe.texas.gov
Staci Childs
469-792-2644
staci.childs@sboe.texas.gov
Rebecca Bell-Metereau
512-665-2157
rebecca.bellmetereau@tea.texas.gov
Patricia Hardy
817-732-1786
pat.hardy.1109@gmail.com
Pam Little
972-342-6697
pam.little@tea.texas.gov
Evelyn Brooks
972-322-9780
ebrooks@evelyn4texaseducation.com
Will Hickman
512-463-9007
will.hickman@tea.texas.gov
Kevin Ellis
512-710-7915
ellisSBOE@gmail.com
Tom Maynard
512-763-2801
tom@maynardfortexas.com
2. Call Your SBOE Members
A direct phone call can make a powerful impact. When calling, remember to:
Thank them for their work reviewing public feedback.
Express your concern about the curriculum’s bias and inaccuracies.
Request that they vote against the proposed curriculum in its current form.
Sample Script:
Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a resident of [City]. As a South Asian Texan, I’m deeply concerned about the proposed K-5 curriculum. It promotes religious bias and fails to reflect the diversity of our state. I urge you to vote against this curriculum and advocate for an inclusive revision process. Thank you for your time.
3. Amplify the Message
Share this page with your networks and on social media using the hashtag #InclusiveEducationTX.
Post your action with a photo or a statement to encourage others to join the movement.
Key Points for Your Message:
Public schools must provide unbiased education, not promote religious beliefs.
The curriculum undermines religious freedom and ignores Texas’ cultural diversity.
Vote against the proposed curriculum and advocate for inclusive, accurate materials.
Additional Resources:
Together, We Can Make a Difference
Your advocacy is crucial. By speaking up, we can ensure that every Texas student receives an education that values diversity, truth, and inclusion.