Chicago City Wire

The Chicago Teachers Union is bringing attention to an opinion column in The Washington Post about the push against critical race theory.

“The author isn't surprised by how quickly the stealthy, well-orchestrated movement against critical race theory picked up steam,” CTU posted on Facebook. "And neither are we." 

The columnist cites a law recently signed by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott "that effectively prohibits teachers from talking honestly and in any depth about the country's racial history."

The teachers union highlighted a quote from the column, "Preserving white supremacy in America’s schools is as American as apple pie — made with fruit picked by slave labor."

Not everyone shares CTU’s views on the issue. Former Republican state Rep. Jeanne Ives  praised parents for speaking out against CRT at a school board meeting

“Tonight a group of brave parents and residents of D99 school district discussed their opposition to critical race theory instruction in their schools, When a few speakers incorrectly stated that there was a bill mandating it, the superintendent arrogantly asked them to show him the bill." Ives said. "The speakers mixed up the mandate for universities to begin teaching CRTL - Culturally Responsive Teaching and Leading standards as directed by JCAR. But they were right that that mandate will flow into the K-12 schools. And they were right that CRTL instructs in CRT.”

Ives argues it’s all been part of a master plan by CRT supporters to get what they want when it comes to changing the system.

“The school leaders questioned the speakers knowing that D99 has already infused CRT- type training into their schools,” she said. “Diversity, equity and inclusion training uses much of the same foundational tenets as CRT. So keep speaking up, D99 parents, because the district leaders want to intimidate you rather than have honest conversations. Be respectful when you do confront the bullies. And show up to the next meeting.”

The Federalist has reported parents are banding together to have their voices heard, many in opposition of the teachings.

“It turns out everyday women don’t want their children being brainwashed to view the world through the lens of 'whiteness,' white racism, and white privilege,” the website reported. “They don’t agree that America was founded on racist principles. They reject the claim that hard work, self-reliance, objectivity, deferred gratification, family, respect for authority, and respect for the written word are intrinsically racist values exploited by white Americans to relentlessly suppress people of color.”