Take Action: encourage more diversity in Texas Textbooks

URGENT ACTION BY 11/18/24

Introduction:
For months, we’ve discussed the dangers of Christian nationalism in public education during our "What’s Up Wednesdays" series. 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 current proposed K-5 curriculum. While we recognize the importance of teaching about religion in history, we believe that the curriculum, as]it stands, does not fully reflect the diversity of our state and community.

  South Asians are one of the fastest-growing groups in Texas, contributing to the rich cultural and religious diversity of our great state. However, the current curriculum overwhelmingly focuses on Christianity and does not adequately address the history and contributions of other religious groups, including South Asians. We feel that this lack of representation does not reflect the reality of our shared history or the values of inclusivity and respect for all cultures and religions that are foundational to our society.

  We kindly request that the State Board of Education revise the curriculum to be more inclusive, ensuring that it reflects the diverse religious and cultural backgrounds of all students, including South Asians, as well as other communities. It is essential that our children see their histories and values reflected in what they learn, so they can grow in an environment of understanding and respect.

  Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to your support in creating a more inclusive and equitable education for all students in Texas.

  Sincerely,
  [Your Name]
  

SBOE Contact info

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:

• TFN Report on Curriculum Bias

• Texas Tribune

• Texas Public Radio

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.

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