LAUSD approves requiring ethnic studies class for graduation

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The Los Angeles Unified school board approved Tuesday a measure that would require an ethnic studies course for graduation, beginning with the class of 2019.

Students rallied outside of district headquarters in downtown Los Angeles in the afternoon to voice their support. Supporters say the district has a diverse population and those cultures and histories should be taught.

"I often feel oppressed, because all we learn is the white man's point of view of history," said Cindy Reyes, an LAUSD student.

"Students should know where their origins came from," said Abigail Martinez, an LAUSD student.

The one-semester course will be phased in to a handful of schools in 2015-16 school year. It will be required by 2019.

An Ethnic Studies Committee made up of students, scholars and teachers will also be created to make recommendations to the board about the pilot program.

School board member Tamar Galatzan was the lone vote against the measure.

City News Service contributed to this report.