Texas Bill Seeks to Educate Students on the Dangers of Communism

A proposed bill currently under consideration in the Texas Senate would introduce mandatory lessons on the history and harms of communism, starting as early as fourth grade. Senate Bill 24, authored by Senator Donna Campbell, has sparked considerable debate due to its focus on contrasting communist ideologies with the founding principles of the United States.

The bill aims to educate students about the violent history and totalitarian practices of communist regimes, such as the Soviet Union, Cuba, and China. Among the atrocities covered would be the Great Leap Forward, the Cambodian genocide, the Cultural Revolution, and the forced labor camps that plagued numerous communist nations. The bill also includes teachings on the tactics used by communist movements, including propaganda, censorship, and public shaming, with an emphasis on the oppression faced by people living under these regimes.

One of the bill’s primary objectives is to educate students on how communist ideologies clash with American principles of individual liberty, free enterprise, and democratic governance. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has championed the bill, pointing to growing concerns about younger Americans’ growing approval of communism. According to a study, one-third of Americans aged 16-23 expressed support for Marxism in 2023, a significant increase from just 6% in 2019.

Critics argue that introducing this curriculum could inadvertently promote a one-sided political agenda, emphasizing the negative aspects of communism while potentially overlooking other political ideologies. However, proponents of the bill believe it is critical for students to understand the stark differences between collectivist ideologies and the freedoms enjoyed under the U.S. Constitution.

The bill also requires that the State Board of Education consult with victims of communism and organizations dedicated to preserving the history of communist regimes to ensure accurate, first-person accounts are included in the curriculum. The proposed lessons would cover not just the historical impacts of communism but also its modern-day implications and the ongoing threats posed by communist regimes to the U.S. and its allies.

Senator Campbell and other advocates argue that it is crucial for students to understand the ideologies that threaten democratic freedoms. By offering students a comprehensive view of communist history, they believe young people will be better equipped to appreciate the freedoms and opportunities they have as American citizens.

This bill, which has garnered support from several state lawmakers, is a clear reflection of the growing concern over the increasing acceptance of communism among younger generations. As communism continues to gain traction among some segments of the population, educators and lawmakers are pushing to ensure that the next generation fully understands the historical realities and dangers associated with such ideologies.