Gov. Jared Polis has signed a bill requiring the state’s Department of Education to develop a statewide K-12 curriculum on Black history and cultural studies.

House Bill 1149, sponsored by Colorado Springs Democrats Rep. Regina English and Sen. Tony Exum, establishes the Black Historical and Cultural Studies Advisory Committee. This 17-member group will provide recommendations for standards and materials for Colorado public and charter schools featuring “factual accounts of the struggles and contributions of Black Americans in all fields of endeavor.”

The bill expands upon a law passed in 2019 requiring schools to teach students about the history, cultural, and social contributions of minorities in America.

Using the committee’s recommendations, the Department of Education will be responsible for creating a resource bank of scholarly articles and program materials about Black history and cultural studies.

The bill’s sponsors said it is necessary to require specific standards on Black history education, particularly in light of the federal government’s crackdowns on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

“Black history is American history, and without a comprehensive Black history curriculum in our public schools, students aren’t receiving the full scope of achievements and contributions of Black Americans,” said English. “We can help our students achieve a well-rounded education by developing and standardizing a comprehensive Black history curriculum in Colorado’s public schools. From politics to engineering, Black Americans’ contributions to society are vast. Our law helps ensure that students learn about the influential Black leaders who changed the course of history and our nation.”

“Here in Colorado, we understand the importance of teaching a full, honest history — one that recognizes the achievements, contributions, and experiences of Black Americans,” added Exum. “Implementing a standardized Black history curriculum in our public schools ensures that students of all races and backgrounds receive a more complete education that prepares them to be informed, engaged citizens and honors the extensive contributions of Black Americans in shaping our state and nation.”

The bill passed on a 24-11 vote in the Senate and a 45-20 vote in the House.