by AAUP National
September 2021
The AAUP has developed a series of resources to address a widespread attempt to whitewash American history. In response to the shutdown of a commission created by President Trump to support “patriotic” education, a wave of states introduced broadly similar legislation that would restrict K-12 teachers and college faculty across disciplines from talking about “divisive topics” and teaching about the role of racism in US history and society. These bills have the potential to chill the free exchange of ideas at universities and colleges and to violate core AAUP principles.
FAQs on Legislation and Policies Restricting Teaching of History
These FAQs are a resource for one-on-one conversations with colleagues, students, reporters, and legislators.
Tracking Legislation on Restricting the Teaching of History
We’re keeping an eye out for this kind of legislation as it is introduced at the state and federal level. The African American Policy Forum has created a useful map.