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. Charles teachers included, "Let's not hide behind white-washed history, our students deserve to know the history...the true history. Maybe that way they will not repeat the mistreatment of people that may be different from themselves" and "I refuse to ignore history and truth because it’s uncomfortable. Our students need educators willing to work alongside them as we all navigate our past, present and future".
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 |
|---|---|
| Katy Rank | I refuse to ignore history and truth because it’s uncomfortable. Our students need educators willing to work alongside them as we all navigate our past, present and future. |
| Ruth Kuzmanic | Let's not hide behind white-washed history, our students deserve to know the history...the true history. Maybe that way they will not repeat the mistreatment of people that may be different from themselves. |
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