Fact-check: Viral Claim that NYC Kids Must Learn Arabic Numerals Debunked
Image Source: Internet
A false claim has been circulating on social media that New York City mayor-elect, Zohran Mamdani, plans to require elementary school students to learn Arabic numerals. The assertion has been shared by unverified profiles and even some public figures, including Derrick Evans, who was involved in the January 6 US Capitol attack. However, experts have confirmed that the Arabic numerals, 0 through 9, are already a standard part of elementary school curricula. The claims appear to be satire, with some individuals calling out the misinformation and others sharing it in a sarcastic tone. Despite the claim being debunked, it has been circulating since November 7, when Mamdani won the mayoral election, defeating former New York governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. The confusion may be attributed to the fact that the Arabic numeral system is indeed used globally, including in the US. It's worth noting that the claims were also amplified by Polymarket, a prediction market platform, and another social media page that referred to 'unconfirmed reports.' However, these claims have no basis in fact, and the Arabic numerals are an integral part of the elementary school curriculum worldwide.
