The pledge was signed by no teachers on Oct. 31, the day before. It now has one pledge from Lee teacher.
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.
The Lee teacher wrote "I believe the only way for systemic racism to truly change is through a critical theorists approach to all teaching and learning. This bill is an insult to educators, families, and our youth! Shame on those in power attempting to pass this politically charged bill for no other readon than to maintain the positions in power held by the dominant white culture." when pledging to teach Critical Race Theory.
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 |
---|---|
Kate Zimar | I believe the only way for systemic racism to truly change is through a critical theorists approach to all teaching and learning. This bill is an insult to educators, families, and our youth! Shame on those in power attempting to pass this politically charged bill for no other readon than to maintain the positions in power held by the dominant white culture. |