California Approves LGBT History Books For Schools

CALIFORNIA — The state's Board of Education this week approved instructional materials that will teach students about the history of lesbians, gays, transgenders and bisexuals, making California the first state in the nation to include LGBT books in classrooms.

The new material followed guidelines established by the FAIR Education Act.

Ten new instructional programs were approved by the board for kindergarten through eighth grade history and social sciences. The new materials include:

• A more complete picture of the accomplishments and challenges faced by LGBT individuals in American history and culture, such as astronaut Sally Ride and comedian Ellen DeGeneres
• Expanded coverage of the farm labor movement that includes not only Cesar Chavez, but also the role of Filipinos and Filipino Civil Rights Leader Larry Itliong
• More detail on African American history, specifically the institution of slavery

"I am proud California continues to lead the nation by teaching history-social science that is inclusive and recognizes the diversity of our great state and nation," said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson . "They update the teaching and learning of history and social science and convey important new information about the challenges and contributions made by individuals and ethnic groups, members of the LGBT communities, and people with disabilities."

Districts can choose to purchase the instructional materials or they can also choose other materials, if those materials teach the content standards and reflect the Fair Education Act, according to the department.

California is the first state to specifically mandate study of Native Americans, African Americans, Mexican Americans, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, European Americans, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Americans, persons with disabilities, and members of other ethnic and cultural groups.

--In this Oct. 20, 1978 file photo, Supervisor Harvey Milk speaks to the media about the city's new anti-litter law in San Francisco. Milk was the first openly gay elected official in California history. (Photo by James Palmer/Associated Press)