The California Assembly Education Committee convened on July 2, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 472, a legislative measure aimed at reinforcing Holocaust and genocide education in the state's schools. The bill, introduced by Senator Sarah Stern, seeks to address alarming gaps in knowledge about these critical historical events among students and educators.

Senator Stern emphasized the importance of teaching uncomfortable aspects of history, such as the Holocaust and slavery, to foster a deeper understanding of human rights issues. She noted a troubling trend: a significant portion of the population, particularly younger generations, lacks basic knowledge about the Holocaust. A recent survey revealed that 74% of California schools do not teach about the Holocaust or genocide, highlighting a pressing need for educational reform.

The bill proposes two main actions: it will remind local educational agencies (LEAs) of their obligations under the education code to include Holocaust education and establish a grants program to support teacher training. This initiative aims to equip approximately 8,500 teachers with the necessary resources to effectively teach these subjects, ultimately reaching around one million students.

Support for the bill was voiced by several witnesses, including Holocaust survivor Liz Ygre and teacher Onda Robinson, who shared personal experiences and the positive impact of Holocaust education on their students. Robinson highlighted that her students found profound meaning in learning about the Holocaust, which has shaped their perspectives on justice and compassion.

The committee received no opposition to the bill, and members expressed strong support for its objectives. Assemblymember Bonta reflected on the importance of such education, recalling her own formative experiences with Holocaust literature. Another member, Lowenthal, shared a personal anecdote from his travels to Auschwitz, underscoring the necessity of integrating these lessons into the educational framework to combat rising disinformation and promote understanding of marginalized communities.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Assembly Education Committee meeting underscored a collective commitment to enhancing Holocaust and genocide education in California. As the bill moves forward, it represents a crucial step toward ensuring that future generations are equipped with the knowledge and sensitivity needed to recognize and combat hatred and intolerance in society.