No new teachers sign the pledge the week before. It now has two pledges from Sunnyvale 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 |
|---|---|
| Susan Pence | ...while I teach preschool students who are too young to understand much of our history, they are very aware of fairness, kindness, and how to find common ground and build friendships with people who are different. They are also learning how to problem solve so everyone's ideas and feelings are honored and respected. I believe that teaching truth includes empowering them with the tools they'll need to prevent future injustices. |
| Michelle Young | “no comment” |
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