New California Laws Protect LGBTQ+ Students, Promote Native American History and More
In a groundbreaking move to protect the rights and dignity of students, California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a series of new laws that will have a significant impact on education in the state. These laws, set to go into effect in the new year, cover a range of issues including LGBTQ+ rights, Native American history, discrimination based on hairstyles, and protection for child content creators.
Protecting LGBTQ+ Students
One of the key laws signed by Governor Newsom is Assembly Bill 1955, which prohibits California school boards from passing resolutions that require school staff to notify parents if they believe a child is transgender. This legislation, known as the SAFETY Act, also offers additional resources and support for LGBTQ+ students at junior high and high schools. The bill was created in response to the rise in politically motivated attacks on the rights and safety of transgender and LGBTQ+ youth across the nation, including in California.
Accurate Native American History
Another significant law set to take effect is AB 1821, which aims to ensure that the history of California Native Americans, particularly during the Spanish colonization and Gold Rush eras, is accurately taught in schools. The legislation requires the Instruction Quality Commission to consult with California tribes when updating the history-social science curriculum to include the treatment and perspectives of Native Americans during these historical periods.
Teaching about Desegregation
AB 1805 is yet another law that will reshape the history-social science curriculum in California. This law requires that the landmark case Mendez v. Westminster School District of Orange County be incorporated into the curriculum to educate students about the fight against school segregation in the state. The case, which led California to become the first state to ban public school segregation, set a precedent for the famous Brown v. Board of Education case.
Protecting Against Hair Discrimination
Assembly Bill 1815 addresses the issue of discrimination against people of color based on their hairstyles. This legislation expands protections against hair discrimination beyond the CROWN Act to include amateur and club sports. By clarifying language in the California Code, the bill aims to eliminate biases based on hair texture and protective hairstyles, such as braids and locks.
With these new laws, California is taking proactive steps to promote inclusivity, accuracy, and protection in its education system, ensuring that all students have access to a safe and supportive learning environment.
