HB3875 - Inclusive American History Act

• Creates the Inclusive American History Commission to develop multiperspective, inclusive history education standards addressing deficiencies in traditional course material that have excluded contributions and perspectives of women, Black people, indigenous people, Latinx people, people of color, faith-based minorities, immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, persons with disabilities, and working class people.

• Commission membership includes 2 history scholars, 2 textbook publishers, teachers (elementary, secondary, and higher education), 2 students, 4 parents, representatives from advocacy organizations, and representatives from regional offices, school boards, principals, administrators, and various school districts across Illinois.

• Requires schools to suspend all history instruction beginning with the 2021-2022 school year, with exceptions for graduating students, and replace it with civics education; State Superintendent must provide revised instructional guidelines by June 30, 2022.

• Beginning with the 2022-2023 school year, schools must resume history instruction using age-appropriate materials that present diverse perspectives, contrary interpretations, and viewpoints of traditionally marginalized groups.

• Commission dissolves after filing its report by December 31, 2021; the entire Act repeals on December 31, 2022.