Congresswoman Beatty Introduces Black History is American History Act

Washington, D.C. — On the first day of Black History Month, U.S. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) reintroduced the Black History is American History Act, legislation that would mandate the inclusion of Black history as a required component of the American History and Civics Academies' competitive grants administered by the U.S. Department of Education.

The American History and Civics Academies support the establishment of the Presidential Academy for American History and Civics, offering workshops for teachers of American history and civics to strengthen their knowledge and preparation for lecturing in these areas. The program also supports the establishment of the Congressional Academy for high-need students to develop a broader and deeper understanding of American history and civics. However, Black history is not a required component for either Academy.

“Black history is American history, and it is under unprecedented attack,” Beatty said. “Black history is crucial to understanding the complexity of our nation's past, present and future—not just slavery and civil rights. By incentivizing schools and educators to teach Black history in the classroom, we can all learn important lessons in our country's ongoing journey toward creating a ‘more perfect Union' for all Americans."

If enacted into law, the piece of legislation would: (1) require entities applying for and receiving grants through the Presidential and Congressional Academies to include Black history as part of the American history and civics-related workshops and teachings for educators and students; (2) promote the use of resources offered by the National Museum of African American History and Culture; and (3) encourage continued inclusion of Black history in tests administered by the National Assessment of Educational Progress.

Congresswoman Beatty previously introduced the Black History is American History Act in the 117th Congress. The legislation was initially introduced by U.S. Congresswoman Marcia Fudge (OH-11) in the 116th Congress. The bill awaits consideration in the House Education and Labor Committee.

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