SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A bill moving to the Illinois Senate could require Arab American history for elementary and high school students.

The plan requires school districts to include a unit of Arab American history curriculum in their social studies classes starting with the 2026-2027 school year.

This proposal calls for instruction about the history of Arab Americans in Illinois and the Midwest as well as the contributions of Arab Americans from the 19th century onward.

"Illinois is home to one of the largest Arab American populations in the country," said Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid (D-Bridgeview). "From business owners and educators to doctors, engineers, artists, and public servants, Arab Americans are woven into the fabric of Illinois in every sector of society. However, despite our rich contributions, Arab American stories often go untold in our classrooms."

Each school board would have the ability to determine the minimum amount of instruction time that qualifies for the unit of Arab American history.

House Bill 2997 passed out of the House on a 67-35 vote. It now moves to the Senate for further consideration. 

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