Arab American Civic Council Opposes the Decision to Settle Lawsuit Targeting Ethnic Studies

The Arab American Civic Council strongly opposes the Santa Ana Unified School District’s (SAUSD) deeply troubling decision to settle a lawsuit aimed at erasing Palestinian narratives from Ethnic Studies courses. The lawsuit, brought by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and other groups with a well-documented history of anti-Palestinian bias, represents yet another attempt to suppress the voices of BIPOC communities and control the narrative on global struggles for justice.

As part of the settlement, the district will discontinue three Ethnic Studies courses that provided students with critical perspectives on historically vilified and marginalized communities, including Palestinians—who are actively facing genocide in Gaza. By choosing censorship over education, SAUSD is denying students the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about human rights, colonialism, and global justice.

“This decision is not just an attack on education; it is an attack on truth and justice,” said Rashad Al-Dabbagh, Executive Director of the Arab American Civic Council. “At a time when Palestinians are experiencing unspeakable atrocities, it is more important than ever for students to learn about their history and struggles. Our schools should foster critical thinking, not bend to political pressure that seeks to silence marginalized communities.”

The Arab American Civic Council calls on SAUSD to reverse course and ensure that Ethnic Studies remains an inclusive and accurate representation of all communities. Students deserve an education that reflects the realities of the world around them, not one shaped by censorship and political intimidation.