Landmark Bill Incorporating Arab American History into Illinois Curriculum Heads to Governor’s Desk

SPRINGFIELD, Ill – Today, the Illinois General Assembly passed legislation from Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid that, for the first time, incorporates Arab American history into core curriculum taught in Illinois elementary schools and high schools.

“Illinois is home to one of the largest Arab American populations in the country. We are woven into the fabric of Illinois in every sector of society, and yet, Arab Americans’ stories go untold in our classrooms,” said Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid. “Many students graduate high school with little to no knowledge of Arab American history or the community’s contributions to Illinois and the United States. This bill bridges that gap.”

HB 2997 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. The curriculum should include Arab American involvement in government and the arts, humanities, and science. School districts will need to include a unit of Arab American History instruction starting with the 2026-2027 school year.

“Representation in education benefits all students,” said Rashid. “By accurately teaching how Arab Americans helped build our nation, we humanize a group that is too often subject to misunderstanding – creating a richer, more accurate picture of our America’s diverse identity. Fostering empathy and inclusion in our schools is more important now than ever.”