The Texas State Board of Education approved a new social studies program on Friday, according to which high school students will be taught that Islam is 'radical' and 'brutal'.
This decision was made by the ruling Republicans after several hours of hearings where hundreds of people spoke regarding changes to the methodology of teaching religions in the state's public schools. The new curriculum will affect about five million students.
Starting in the 2030–2031 academic year, when textbooks are introduced, the focus will shift to mandatory reading of biblical excerpts, emphasizing the positive aspects of Christianity, and describing early Islamic military campaigns as 'brutal,' although this term is not used for wars waged by Christians.
As reported by the news service Fox4 Dallas-Fort Worth, the study of early Islam will specifically be presented through the lens of slavery and the captivity of women. The September 11, 2001 attacks, carried out by Saudi aggressors and largely planned by 'Al-Qaeda,' will be taught as motivated by 'radical Islam,' rather than political reasons or agendas. Critics have sharply condemned this decision.