Maus, by Art Spiegelman

The Polish American Strategic Initiative has addressed a letter, dated March 23, 2022, to the Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education, U.S. House of Representatives, urging that it instruct public school districts to discontinue the use of the book Maus, by Art Spiegelman, in their curricula. The letter claims to represent the views of "a coalition of Polish American organizations nationwide." Since one of the signatories is listed as a member of the Polish American Historical Association (PAHA), this may suggest endorsement of the initiative by PAHA as an organization.

The Board of Directors of PAHA declares unequivocally that such is not the case. While PAHA members may support the petition to Congress as individuals, which is entirely their right, they do not speak for PAHA as an organization.

The Board of Directors of PAHA disavows and strongly objects to what appears to be a clear attempt to misappropriate and mischaracterize the name and stance of this scholarly society.

Neal Pease
Professor of History
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (Emeritus)

President, Polish American Historical Association