09-02-2005, 01:35 AM
from email..
<!--QuoteBegin-->QUOTE<!--QuoteEBegin-->Subject: URGENT - Sign the Petition against
California Textbook Adoption
> Namaste. This fall the California State Board of Education will be voting on the adoption of 12 social studies textbooks to be used in schools throughout California.
The Vedic Foundation has reviewed the sections of the texts on Hinduism and Indian history and culture. Gross inaccuracies have been identified in the information presented in all 12 books including:
Factual errors and demeaning descriptions of Hinduism that contradict the beliefs of practicing Hindus.
Material presented is not important or illuminating, often emphasizing stereotypes.
A biased treatment of Hinduism when compared to other religions. Below is one example which illustrates the problem:
"The monkey king Hanuman loved Rama so much that it is said that he is present every time the Ramayan is told. So look around--see any monkeys?"
The Ancient South Asian World - page 87 - Oxford University Press Teachings such as these promote the rejection of a valuable spiritual and cultural tradition by Hindu youth. Other students build a negative perception of India, her culture and her people.
You can help voice the concerns of the U.S. Hindu community by signing the petition to the State Board of Education members:
http://www.PetitionOnline.com/text2/
Please circulate this petition among your friends, coworkers, concerned parents and students.
I personally agree with what this petition says, and I think you might agree, too. If you can spare a moment, please take a look, and consider signing yourself.<!--QuoteEnd--><!--QuoteEEnd-->
<!--QuoteBegin-->QUOTE<!--QuoteEBegin-->Subject: URGENT - Sign the Petition against
California Textbook Adoption
> Namaste. This fall the California State Board of Education will be voting on the adoption of 12 social studies textbooks to be used in schools throughout California.
The Vedic Foundation has reviewed the sections of the texts on Hinduism and Indian history and culture. Gross inaccuracies have been identified in the information presented in all 12 books including:
Factual errors and demeaning descriptions of Hinduism that contradict the beliefs of practicing Hindus.
Material presented is not important or illuminating, often emphasizing stereotypes.
A biased treatment of Hinduism when compared to other religions. Below is one example which illustrates the problem:
"The monkey king Hanuman loved Rama so much that it is said that he is present every time the Ramayan is told. So look around--see any monkeys?"
The Ancient South Asian World - page 87 - Oxford University Press Teachings such as these promote the rejection of a valuable spiritual and cultural tradition by Hindu youth. Other students build a negative perception of India, her culture and her people.
You can help voice the concerns of the U.S. Hindu community by signing the petition to the State Board of Education members:
http://www.PetitionOnline.com/text2/
Please circulate this petition among your friends, coworkers, concerned parents and students.
I personally agree with what this petition says, and I think you might agree, too. If you can spare a moment, please take a look, and consider signing yourself.<!--QuoteEnd--><!--QuoteEEnd-->