No new teachers sign the pledge the week before. It now has six pledges from South Bend teachers by the end of the week ending April 9.
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.
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. Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, New Hampshire, Florida, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Tennessee have passed legislation banning discussions about the US being inherently racist.
Other states, such as Montana and Georgia, have denounced the teachings and are discussing a ban on critical race theory teachings.
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 |
|---|---|
| Sharon Holston | teachers should never be forced to lie to students. |
| Iris Outlaw | As a higher education retiree and a proponent of DEI in all components of one's development and critical thinking, I believe that we and the next generation must we fully educated on the entire history of our country. It is imperative that we have a full understanding of perspective of all acts during the development of our country. It is not about condeming, but realizing the horrendous acts and contributions of all people comprising in making the US what it is today. |
| Peggy Appleby | Truth to childrenTruth to powerRight the wrong |
| Elizabeth Drake | “no comment” |
| Marilyn Arney | I am appalled that legislators are demanding that we lie to our students to protect the lying legislators. |
| Erin Lemrow | I believe in an educated, well-informed citizenry. |
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