A bipartisan group of legislators including Rep. Patrick Snyder (R- Wausau), Rep. Francesca Hong (D- Madison), Rep. Katrina Shankland (D- Stevens Point), Rep. Ron. Tusler (R- Harrison), and Sen. Eric Wimberger (R- Green Bay) introduced legislation to update the state’s statutory educational goals to require “at all grade levels, an understanding of human relations, particularly with regard to…Hmong Americans and American Pacific Islander Desi Americans (APIDA),” according to a press release from Hong’s office.
April was Hmong Heritage Month and May is APIDA Heritage Month. Wisconsin has the third largest Hmong population in the United States, behind only Minnesota and California.
“The stories and experiences of these vast and diverse demographics are intrinsically linked with the story of Wisconsin, and this bill will help us ensure that is reflected in our classrooms. Hmong American and APIDA lives, cultures, and contributions to our state, nation, and local communities deserve this attention, commemoration, and respect,” Hong said in a statement.
“Our Hmong American and Asian Pacific Islander Desi American neighbors enrich our state with their presence and culture,” continued Sen. Eric Wimberger. “Their stories are uniquely American, but often unheard, and our students will certainly benefit from learning about their experiences.”
