Hawaii Holocaust Education Summary
Legal Status
- Mandated by law: Yes, pending final enactment
- Introduced via HB 2092 (2024), requiring a statewide Holocaust & genocide curriculum for grades 8–12 [oai_citation:0‡billtrack50.com](https://www.billtrack50.com/billdetail/1681886?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
- Curriculum must include at least 6 hours of instruction covering Holocaust history, antisemitism, racism, human rights violations, and the ramifications of intolerance
- HB 2092 passed its initial legislative stages but awaits final approval before becoming effective
How the Holocaust Appears in Hawaii’s Standards
Middle & High School (Grades 8–12)
- Once enacted, school districts will be required to provide at least six hours of Holocaust/genocide instruction in grades 8–12
- Courses must address Holocaust history (1933–1945), antisemitism, racism, broader human rights violations, and moral reflections on intolerance
Supplemental Teaching Tools Encouraged
Hawaii educators may enhance instruction with resources such as:
- U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum curricula
- Echoes & Reflections educational materials
- Survivor testimony videos and primary source documents
Teaching Notes for Hawaii Educators
| Area | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Mandated by Law | Yes (upon final enactment of HB 2092) |
| Included in Curriculum | Yes, required under forthcoming DOE curriculum plan |
| Grade Levels | Grades 8–12 |
| Instructional Scope | Minimum 6 hours of Holocaust & genocide instruction |
| Professional Development | DOE responsible for curriculum development and implementation guidance |
Conclusion
Hawaii is advancing toward a statewide requirement for Holocaust and genocide education. If HB 2092 becomes law, school districts will be required to teach at least six hours of instruction across grades 8–12, covering historical, ethical, and civic dimensions of the Holocaust. Educators are encouraged to use survivor testimony, primary sources, and supplementary materials to meet and enrich these curriculum requirements.