This month, we will turn our attention to civics education. Every two years, we find ourselves in October near the end of the political campaign season. California has no statewide scheduled elections in November 2021, but that does not mean civic engagement stops. Instead, we have a moment to think about our local area, state, and nation outside of the context of an election. A way to do this is to consider the idea of civic learning.

Abstract: California voters face an unusual political moment this month. For only the second time in state history, voters will decide in the middle of a governor’s term whether to keep this elected official in office. While recall attempts are common in California, what is unique is an actual recall election. This year, however, a sufficient number of voters – more than 1.5 million – signed their names to a petition to force an election.

Why has the term ‘redlining’ been in the news, and what are its connections to social, environmental and climate justice issues? Beginning in the 1930s, redlining was an official practice by federal agencies and banks that for decades restricted home loans primarily to white Americans.

It is highly likely that today’s Afghan evacuees are your students tomorrow, or sometime in the near future. California is presently and historically a magnet for newcomers—immigrants and refugees alike. Fleeing from persecution is just the beginning of a perilous journey towards an unknown destination for safety. That was my family’s refugee experience. 

by Wendy Rouse and Beth Slutsky

Today, the intersection of 4th St. and Pico Blvd.

Abstract:  Incidents of hate crimes, attacks, and harassment directed at Asian Americans have skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic. To scholars and students of Asian American history, these patterns are neither new nor surprising.

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. I am Chinese and Vietnamese, so at home, it’s AAPI love and appreciation all the time. This year’s AAPI heritage month, however, feels more weighted. Even my mom feels it.

Abstract: As the country replaces deteriorating and outdated infrastructure and adds new items like electric vehicle charging stations, it is worth keeping in mind that even “green” technologies have environmental and social impact.

Students in 7th grade often read in their textbooks that the Mongols were the terrifying conquerors of the largest land empire in world history.  But look at these three representations of Mongols.