They’re one of the thousands of US teachers pledging to continue educating students about the controversial Critical Race Theory, which explains racism is embedded in US culture and politics.
Comments from St. Louis teachers included, "No comment. And then "Milton Mayer, in his book "They Thought They Were Free" showed the dangers of ignorance and misinformation and prejudice leading to Nazi Germany. In a country of "alternative facts" and when many Americans believe "The Big Lie" and doubt the need for masks and vaccinations -- when there are vituperative attacks on Board members and teachers, libraries and curriculum -- we are the defenders of democracy. A good year to teach Orwell's 1984. A good year to teach truth."
Though the concept was first suggested in the late 70’s, it has recently exploded as a contentious issue between the American right and left in the last two years.
Many who signed the pledge are defying state bans on the teachings. Arizona, Idaho, Iowa, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas have passed legislation banning discussions about the US being inherently racist.
Other states, such as Montana and South Dakota, have denounced the teachings without passing specific legislation.
In an interview with The Washington Free Beacon, Ashley Varner of the Freedom Foundation accused the Zinn Education Project of providing ’left-leaning propaganda to teachers.’
Teachers | Thoughts on Critical Race Theory |
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Coff E. Break | No comment |
Edward Taylor | Milton Mayer, in his book "They Thought They Were Free" showed the dangers of ignorance and misinformation and prejudice leading to Nazi Germany. In a country of "alternative facts" and when many Americans believe "The Big Lie" and doubt the need for masks and vaccinations -- when there are vituperative attacks on Board members and teachers, libraries and curriculum -- we are the defenders of democracy. A good year to teach Orwell's 1984. A good year to teach truth. |