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 Chicago teacher wrote "All students benefit from an honest, multi-perspective, in-depth history of the community they are growing up in. Students of color deserve to learn their history, the experiences of their ancestors, and ways that their resistance and resilience have strengthened us today." 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 |
|---|---|
| Anita Mathias | All students benefit from an honest, multi-perspective, in-depth history of the community they are growing up in. Students of color deserve to learn their history, the experiences of their ancestors, and ways that their resistance and resilience have strengthened us today. |
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