ADC issues advisory on the increase of Palestinian censorship in California Classrooms.

Latest guide now available.

In December 2025, ADC asked a court to block California’s AB 715 as unconstitutional, arguing it violates teachers’ First Amendment rights to discuss Palestine and limits students’ ability to learn about related topics. The California Department of Education (CDE) stated that AB 715 does not prohibit criticism of Israel, teaching about Gaza, or Palestinian cultural celebration, though several pro-Israel organizations argued that certain pro-Palestinian viewpoints could be treated as antisemitic discrimination under the law. ADC maintains that this disagreement, combined with AB 715’s language and complaint process creates a chilling effect on classroom speech.

The Court denied emergency relief, finding the harm too speculative and the challenge premature because the law had not yet taken effect. The case remains active, and no final ruling has been made. Notably, the Court acknowledged that students have a First Amendment right to learn about Israel and Palestine in appropriate educational settings.

This guide helps students and parents understand:

• What AB 715 does not ban
• Your right to learn and ask questions
• What schools are required to allow
• How to speak up if your rights are limited