August 26, 1967

Some lawmakers today are calling for schools to teach more about African American contributions to history. In Michigan, for example, representatives have put forward a bill to require that the accomplishments of African Americans be taught in schools beyond just the history of slavery and the Civil Rights era, and it is getting new attention in the wake of Charlottesville. (http://www.hollandsentinel.com/news/20170816/african-american-education-bill-gets-new-push-in-michigan-house-after-charlottesville)

Over fifty years, African Americans and their allies in Milwaukee were making a similar argument.

Questions for reflection:

1. Did Henry S. Reuss serve in the United States House of Representatives or the Senate?

2. Who is a person in history that he thinks students should learn about?

3. How does this example support his argument?

4. How should it be decided what is taught and not taught in schools? To what extent is majority rule the best way to decide?

“Reuss Urges Fair Portrayal of Negro Role in History,” August 26, 1967. Milwaukee Courier, Page 1. Milwaukee Public Library Microfilm Collection, Microfilmed by the Wisconsin Historical Society.