As one of the oldest anti-hate organizations in the country and California, ADL was a supporter of AB 331 to teach Ethnic Studies in California public high schools. Ethnic Studies provides an invaluable opportunity to foster respect among students and an appreciation of our rich and diverse history. Sadly, the initial draft of the proposed Ethnic Studies Model Curriculum (ESMC) included sections that advanced antisemitic tropes and featured gratuitous anti-Israel bias. Words matter. Bias is a learned behavior which must be disrupted at the earliest possible moment, otherwise it can escalate to hateful action. The curriculum does not exist in a vacuum.
This summer, the landmark US Millenial Holocaust Knowledge & Awareness Study revealed that 11% of 18-39 year-olds believe that Jews caused the Holocaust and 23% believe it was exaggerated, a myth or are not sure of its veracity. And, the recently released 2019 California hate crime report shows that though reported hate crime decreased 5% overall, crimes targeting Jews soared almost 12%. Now is not the time to ignore the American Jewish experience. And it is never appropriate to amplify antisemitism and anti-Israel bias. Increasing understanding and respect for other marginalized groups should not substitute one form of hate for another.
Though ADL supported AB 331, we respect Governor Newsom’s decision to veto AB 331 due to ongoing concerns in the latest draft. It remains incomplete and in need of further improvement. We have many educational resources to contribute to the design of a balanced, meaningful ESMC, and we will remain engaged in this effort.