Dear Community Partners,

I am delighted to inform you that the Assembly Education Committee passed Assembly Bill 2064 with a 6-0 vote in yesterday’s hearing.

As many of you are aware, AB 2064 will require the State Board of Education and the Curriculum Development and Supplemental Materials Commission to adopt textbook and instructional materials that include instruction on the Vietnam War.  This bill specifically requires textbook and instructional materials to include the “Secret War” in Laos; the role of Southeast Asians in that war; AND the refugee/immigrant/new American experience as a result of the Vietnam War. 

Current law encourages instruction on the Vietnam War and the role of Southeast Asians in that war.  AB 2064 goes a step further to require textbooks and instructional materials to include the “Secret War” in Laos and the experiences of many Southeast Asians as a result of the war.  AB 2064 will take effect beginning with the next state curriculum adoption cycle, due for completion in 2011.

I would like to extend my appreciation to the many individuals, war veterans, and organizations whose support, presence, and testimony at the April 9th hearing helped move the bill forward.  AB 2064 will now move to the Committee on Appropriations before moving to the Assembly Floor for a vote.  I am honored to have met with many outstanding Southeast Asian citizens from all over the district and the State of California, and want to thank each of you for your continued support and contribution to the diversity of our community and the State of California.

Siincerely,

 JUAN ARAMBULA

Member of the Assembly

Thirty First District