I recently got my hands on a lesson plan for Arab-American Heritage Month, which is taught to 5th graders in Los Angeles public schools. The content raised several eyebrows, including my own, due to its controversial and somewhat perplexing approach to representing Arab-American heritage.
Key Takeaways from the Curriculum:
Exclusion of Women in Family Values The lesson astonishingly suggests that women in Arab culture are non-existent within the family framework. This outdated stereotype fails to recognize the significant roles women play in Arab families and communities, presenting a skewed perspective to young students.
Questionable Inclusion of Palestinian Figures The curriculum states that Palestinian territories aren’t considered Arab. However, it paradoxically highlights figures such as @RashidaTlaib and Linda Sarsour (who blocked me, by the way) as Arab-American heritage icons. Both of these individuals have been criticized for their antisemitic views, yet they are presented as central figures in Arab-American heritage. This choice of role models is confusing and potentially misleading for impressionable students.
Focus on Palestinian Victimization The lesson appears to have a significant focus on Palestinian immigrants and their victimization. While it's important to acknowledge and teach about the struggles of all communities, this singular focus raises questions about the curriculum’s balance and objectivity.
Prominent Antisemitic Contributors Perhaps most concerning is that 25% of the Arab Americans listed as contributors to the US have clear antisemitic views. Introducing such figures as role models for children is highly questionable and potentially harmful, promoting intolerance rather than understanding.
Download the course here:
This curriculum raises serious concerns about the messages being conveyed to young students under the guise of cultural education. It's essential to provide an accurate and respectful representation of Arab-American heritage, one that celebrates the diverse contributions and positive impact of Arab-Americans while fostering inclusivity and understanding.
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