Desi Today Magazine
THE Idaho Department of Education has moved to include accurate information about Sikhs in its social studies content standards. This decision ensures that 250,000 students enrolled in Idaho public schools from grades 6 through 9 will gain a better understanding of Sikhs.
“We commend the Idaho Department of Education for recognizing the importance of including Sikhs in its content standards,” said the Sikh Coalition’s Operations and Volunteer Engagement Manager, Damanpreet Singh. “We look forward to replicating this success in other states moving forward.”
In late 2016, upon learning that the Idaho State Board of Education was reviewing its social studies standards, the Sikh Coalition contacted the board with comprehensive materials about Sikh history and traditions. After reviewing the guidance, the board promptly agreed to include information about Sikhs in its content standards for social studies. The updated standards were approved and made public this month.
In making this change, Idaho now joins a growing list of states—including New York, New Jersey, Texas, and California—that have worked with the Sikh Coalition to include accurate information about Sikhs in its public school curriculum.
After assessing the review timelines of all 50 states in 2016, the Sikh Coalition continues to engage with educators and sangat members nationwide to ensure Sikhism is taught accurately.
If you want to inquire about the standards in your state or receive free educational resources, including “The Sikhs” brochures (available in 18 languages) and “Who are the Sikhs?” posters and postcards, email education@sikhcoalition.org.
