Howard Zinn Approach to History
Yes, California, the state where Prop 8 passed, thanks to lots of hate money from the Catholics and the Mormons, will be the first state to to require that public school textbooks include the accomplishments of gay, lesbian, and transgender Americans. While I’m sure there will be homophobic bigots who will say this is just part of the “Gay Agenda,” I am elated to know that California will soon be presenting a far more accurate picture of American history. The late Howard Zinn, a strong LGBT ally, would be quite happy.
Speaking of LGBT allies, can I say how happy I was to see that TSM regular, and fierce LGBT ally, Jen Lockett posted this on her blog. When we finally do have full equality, it will be in part due to the courageous support of our heterosexual allies like Jennifer. Her blog is mostly an academic/historical blog, and I am grateful that she gave this story due coverage. I think you will enjoy her blog if you have not already checked it out.
More on courageous LGBT allies: Gov. Jerry Brown, who signed the mandate into law, said:
History should be honest…This bill revises existing laws that prohibit discrimination in education and ensures that the important contributions of Americans from all backgrounds and walks of life are included in our history books. It represents an important step forward for our state.
I would argue that it does more than just make a move forward for civil rights in the state of California, it sets a precedent for teaching accurate history, regardless of how one feels about the topic. Click here to see the full article and video.
Social Justice For All 
yoy are so right,god i want to be in l.a now….
Let us hope other states will follow suit.
This morning a friend asked me if I thought that this countered on a ballot proposition along with marriage equality – might be double jeopardy for us LGBT on the 2012 ballot. Good question.
Zoe, I love hearing from you. Oh, I do hope it will not put us in double jeopardy! I need to interview you and get people to read your book! We hope to pass Marriage Equality here in Oregon in 2012.
Lets show March On in Portland or Ashland. Would love to do that with you. And make it a fundraiser for Marriage Equality..
http://marchonmovie.com
Zoe, I love that! You are brilliant! Let me contact Basic Rights Oregon and suggest this! Thanks for including the link.
Thanks for the cross-post Michael!
Thank you for being such a supportive and loving ally. Thank you also for your wonderful blog.