The Texas State Board of Education is rewriting what millions of students will learn about history, race, and democracy. But instead of appointing qualified educators and historians to guide this process, the board has filled its advisory panel with political activists who have questioned diversity efforts and promoted historically false claims, including the idea that America was founded as a Christian nation.

This panel includes individuals with no formal training in history or curriculum design. One appointee has argued that expertise is meaningless and that public education should remove lessons on racism, identity, and systemic bias. Another wrote a book that was pulled from shelves for misrepresenting historical facts. These are not fringe voices. They are now helping shape what Texas students will learn for the next generation.

Educators, parents, and even some Republican board members are speaking out. They say this is not about balance or patriotism. It is about rewriting history to fit a political agenda and erasing the contributions of communities of color, immigrants, and people whose stories deserve to be told.

We cannot let politics decide what is true. Texas students deserve an education based on facts, evidence, and respect for the full story of our past. That includes both our country’s achievements and its challenges.

We call on the Texas State Board of Education to remove any advisers who do not have professional expertise in history, civics, or education. The board must include diverse, qualified voices who can help create a curriculum that prepares students to think critically and understand the world around them.

Public education should not be a political battleground. It should be a space for learning, reflection, and honest conversation. Sign this petition to defend the right of every student in Texas to learn truthful and inclusive history.

Photo: Trace Thomas for The Texas Tribune