Muslim Texans Push Back as GOP Leaders Reject Islam Content in Social‑Studies
Advocates warn that erasing Islam from the curriculum fuels stereotypes and sidelines Muslim students, while Republicans argue the subject has no place in Texas history
A growing chorus of Muslim advocates are challenging Texas Republicans’ push to strip Islam‑related content from the state’s proposed social‑studies curriculum.
They warned that the move risks deepening bias and misrepresenting the state’s diverse student population.
During Tuesday’s State Board of Education meeting, GOP speakers rallied behind the draft revisions to the Social Studies Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills （TEKS）, praising the emphasis on civics, American history, and what they called “foundational values.”
But many also urged the board to reject any material that highlights Islamic history or contributions.
“Christian influences are prevalent throughout the founding documents and writings of the founding fathers. Islam is not,” said Fran Rhodes, president of the True Texas Project. “Islam is not part of the U.S. or Texan heritage and doesn’t need to be taught in our public schools.”
Muslim community leaders, however, said that framing was not only historically inaccurate but harmful.
The debate comes as the board considers sweeping revisions to the TEKS, which guide lesson plans, textbooks, and assessments statewide. If approved, the new standards would shape instruction beginning in the 2030 school year.
Republican activists, including SBOE candidate Victoria Hinojosa and conservative organizer Abraham George, framed their support as a defense against ideological influence. “Our children deserve the truth — the Judeo‑Christian values that founded this nation,” George wrote on X.
Muslim advocate Shaimaa Zayan says the curriculum should reflect academic consensus, not political pressure. “Texas classrooms serve students from every background,” she said.
“A curriculum that erases Islam doesn’t reflect reality — it reflects fear.”
The board is expected to continue revising the standards before a final vote later this year.