West Cook News

Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch joined other legislators and community inclusion and human rights advocates in witnessing the signing of a bill known as the TEAACH Act that would compel public school educators to ensure the inclusion of Asian-American history in the curriculum.

According to him, the measure will help the youth understand and accept diverse cultures. Welch thanked the bill sponsors and supporters.

“It's good to be here with all of them. We wouldn't be here without the House and Senate working together to make this important day happen,” he said. “So, thank you colleagues for being courageous and making sure that this historic day happened here today. I'm so incredibly proud to stand before you today as we sign a bill making Illinois the first state in the nation to include Asian-American history in the curriculum for every public school.”

He reiterated that when enacted into law, the implementation of House Bill 376, the Teaching Equitable Asian American History, should be done in all Illinois public schools.

“It happened because of Representative Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz and Sen. [Ram] Villivalam. They were tireless. They worked hard and they were not going to take no for an answer. They made it happen. They deserve their own round of applause. They have truly made our state a model for the rest of the country. This is an example of what each one — reach one, each one — teach one, until all are taught is about, this is the TEAACH Act."

HB376 brings an opportunity for the youth to learn a complete history where no race and culture are excluded.

“This legislation will help students understand a more complete picture of our state and country's history in our classrooms,” Welch said. “An understanding of the different cultures that are present in our great nation. That's what brings us all together. That's what helps us all love and respect one another."

Welch encouraged that this kind of effort should be done throughout the nation. He said that the measure will also give Asian-American students the chance to learn about the experiences and stories that they have personal connections to.

The bill was largely supported in the House and the Senate, with state Rep. Mark Batinick (R-Plainfield) also as one of the measure’s co-sponsors.

Now law, HB376 requires “that the teaching of history of the United States shall include the study of the wrongful incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II and the heroic service of the 100th Infantry Battalion and the 442nd Regimental Combat Team of the United States Army during World War II.”

Gov. J.B. Pritzker approved the bill and signed it on July 9 at Niles West High School.