New Jersey = MORE BLACK History
 

New Jersey law: More black history in schools
2002/08/29 11:42 PM EDT


TRENTON, N.J.(AP) - More aspects of black history must be incorporated into the traditional curriculum at New Jersey schools under a new law signed Wednesday by Gov. James E. McGreevey.

The measure, sponsored by Assemblymen William D. Payne and Craig Stanley, both D-Essex, creates a 19-member ``Amistad Commission'' to promote wider use of educational programs regarding the African slave trade, slavery in America, and the contribution blacks have made to U.S. history.

The commission is named in honor of the enslaved Africans who gained their freedom after overthrowing the crew of the Amistad cargo ship en route from Havana, Cuba, in 1839.

Members of the commission will include the secretary of state, the education commissioner, the chair of the executive board of the President's Council, and 16 public members.

The commission will also point out textbooks that provide an accurate chronicle of the experience of black citizens.