A proposed bill in Illinois could require elementary and high school students to learn about Arab American history. The bill calls for a unit of Arab American history curriculum to be included in social studies classes starting in the 2026-2027 school year. The curriculum would focus on the history of Arab Americans in Illinois and the Midwest, as well as their contributions to government, the arts, humanities, and science. Supporters believe that teaching this history will help promote respect and fight against discrimination. State Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid, a sponsor of the bill, believes that including Arab American history in the curriculum will help students understand the importance of inclusion and understanding. The bill, House Bill 2997, passed out of the House Education Policy Committee on a partisan 9-4 vote and will be voted on by state representatives when they return to Springfield next week. If passed, Illinois would be taking a stand against bigotry, hatred, and anti-Arab American violence. Itedal Shalabi, cofounder and executive director of Arab American Family Services, believes that teaching Arab American history will help students appreciate the contributions of Arab Americans to the economic, cultural, social, and political development of the United States.
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