In a groundbreaking legislative development, Colorado has enacted House Bill 25-1149, a new law that will require all K-12 public schools in the state to include Black history as part of the core curriculum—not as an elective or standalone unit, but as a foundational element of students’ education.
The bill, championed by State Representative Regina English, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., establishes an advisory committee to recommend standards for Black historical and cultural studies, which the State Board of Education will adopt during its next social studies standards review in 2028.
Beginning July 1, 2026, Colorado public schools will be required to teach a more inclusive and accurate narrative of American history. The new law ensures that students will learn about key moments and movements such as the Harlem Renaissance, slavery, the Civil Rights Movement, and Black resistance as central themes rather than peripheral topics.
“This is not about rewriting history—it’s about telling the full story,” said education advocates who have long lobbied for more inclusive instruction. The law reflects years of pressure from educators, parents, and community leaders to move beyond superficial Black History Month lessons and provide year-round instruction rooted in factual and culturally representative narratives.
Legal scholars point out that the bill is part of a broader trend in education equity reform, with implications for constitutional discussions around equal protection, freedom of speech, and state education mandates.
Under HB 25-1149, the advisory committee will include subject matter experts, educators, and community stakeholders. Their recommendations will guide the state in implementing training for teachers, updating textbooks, and revising assessment materials to reflect the new requirements.
Advocates stress that embedding Black history in the curriculum isn’t merely symbolic. Research consistently shows that inclusive curricula can improve academic outcomes, promote critical thinking, and foster empathy among students of all backgrounds.
“Representation matters. Education matters. And this is a step toward both,” Rep. English said in support of the bill’s passage.
The move has been praised as one of the most significant education reforms in recent state history. Colorado now joins a small but growing number of states adopting mandatory curriculum standards that affirm the historical and cultural contributions of Black Americans.
The implementation phase—set to unfold over the next few years—will be closely watched by legal observers, education policymakers, and civil rights organizations as a potential model for similar legislation nationwide.
