5 brave lawmakers vote against requiring Holocaust education in Oklahoma public schools…

In a rare moment of sanity, the Oklahoma House advanced HB 3720 early Monday morning.

If the legislation becomes law, it will require the Holocaust to be taught in Oklahoma schools, something that apparently requires a law in Oklahoma.

According to the bill, the State Board of Education, in consultation with experts in Holocaust education, will develop and distribute curricula, materials, and units related to Holocaust education for grade-appropriate instruction for students in grades six through twelve.

By doing that, lawmakers hope to accomplish the following goals:

1. Help students generate an understanding of the causes, course, and effects of the Holocaust;

2. Develops dialogue with students on the ramifications of bullying, bigotry, stereotyping, and discrimination; and

3. Encourages tolerance of diversity and reverence for human dignity for all citizens in a pluralistic society.

Unlike most bills where Oklahoma lawmakers try to mess with what's taught in classrooms, the legislation seems rather benign, noncontroversial, and a good thing to do. I think any sane person can agree that the Holocaust was a terrible and hideous act that all humans should be aware of.

As a result, the bill passed the House by an overwhelming 80 - 5 margin. Democrats apparently liked the bill as it will raise awareness of the Holocaust, its origins, and its consequences, whereas Republicans were in favor because it will help future Oklahoma children understand the analogies their parents use when whining about vaccines and mask mandates.

Although it seemed really easy to vote yes for this bill, five Oklahoma lawmakers apparently have a problem with teaching students about the Holocaust and voted "No."

They are:

DENISE CROSSWHITE HADER

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TOMMY HARDIN

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TOM GANN

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WENDI STEARMAN

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RICK WEST

I have no clue why these five people voted against a bill that would ensure Oklahoma students learn about the Holocaust. Since they're GOP lawmakers from rural Oklahoma, I'll assume it has something to do with them being wacko conspiracy theorists, Nazi sympathizers, or simply run-of-the-mill Christian theocrats who also happen to be antisemitic xenophobes.

Either way, I'd like to compliment these five individuals for showing the courage and conviction to refuse to take the easy way out with a "Yes" vote, and instead stand up for their values and principles, no matter how disturbing they actually are. I'm sure many of their GOP colleagues in the House only wish they could be that brave, and vote the way they really wanted on this bill.

Anyway, I guess we'll continue to follow this bill as it heads to the Senate and then possibly Kevin Stitt's desk. Stay with The Lost Ogle. We'll keep you advised.