We are in the midst of one of the most wide-scale attacks on Black history in recent times – conservatives across the country are actively passing laws to erase Black history from the classroom. Our teachers are on the frontlines and are under attack for teaching accurate history. And all children suffer as a result. This fight is personal to us and it should be personal to anyone who claims to stand for equity in education. No textbook or curricula publisher can remain silent.

Many education experts foresee that the vague legislative guidelines regarding what is off-limits in schools and libraries will result in diluted content from textbook publishers and education companies. We can’t allow public officials to dumb down public school curricula simply because they are not comfortable with the truth of this country’s past. That’s why we are calling on textbook and curricula publishers to make a public commitment to including accurate history in their educational materials. 

These industry leaders should stand by their statements of increasing educational equity and ensure that the educational materials they publish include accurate history. Our children deserve an honest and inspiring education. Our democracy depends on it. Demand that these textbook and curricula publishers pick a side!

Here is the Petition:

Dear Executives at Education materials companies:

You have the unique opportunity to be a leader in the education materials industry and take a position that reflects your stated values. Committing to publish accurate Black history in curriculum development will demonstrate that you value the culturally responsive education and education equity for our students and our teachers. We are asking you to make a public commitment to including accurate history in your textbooks and curricula.