Teaching history

We as a society are at a point of diminishing knowledge and consciousness about the history and consequences of racial hatred.

According to the most recent study from the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitic incidents of harassment and violence rose 12 percent in 2021. The Pew Research Center reports fewer than half of U.S. adults know how many Jews died in the Holocaust or how the Nazis rose to power. Four in 10 American Jews report they have been targets of antisemitic threats in the past year (American Jewish Committee). Fewer than half of U.S. states include classes on the Holocaust. Ignorance is dangerous.

As it implements its new, inclusive social studies curriculum, we urge New Mexico to lead the way by teaching about the events of history that impact us all.

Janet Williams president Santa Fe NOW