Press Statement
For Immediate Release
June 5, 2025
Illinois Commits $2 Million to Inclusive History Education Following Community Advocacy
Funding secured after years of organizing to implement racial equity mandates in public schools
CHICAGO, IL – Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago celebrates a major victory in the FY26 Illinois state budget: the appropriation of $2 million for the implementation of inclusive K-12 history mandates. This funding will help ensure that all Illinois students see their communities reflected in the histories they learn in the classroom. Administered by the Illinois State Board of Education, these funds will support the expansion of access to professional development, culturally responsive curriculum, and instructional support for educators statewide.
Illinois has passed multiple inclusive history laws over the last five years, including mandates on Asian American, Native American, Muslim, and LGBTQ+ histories. However, many districts have struggled with implementation due to lack of resources.
“The hard part of passing bills isn’t just the advocacy to get it done – it’s in the implementation,” said Grace Pai, Executive Director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago. “Many teachers were never taught Asian American or other marginalized histories themselves. This investment begins to close the gap and ensures students across the state receive an education that tells the full story of who we are.”
This win was the result of three years of persistent advocacy by Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago after the passage of the Teaching Equitable Asian American History (TEAACH) Act in 2021. The $2 million appropriation is a step toward our long-term vision of an education system that equips every student to see themselves and their peers with dignity and understanding.
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About Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago
Asian Americans Advancing Justice | Chicago builds power through collective advocacy and grassroots organizing to achieve racial equity. Our work centers immigrant justice, education equity, and community-led democracy. Learn more at www.advancingjustice-chicago.org