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 Arcata teachers included, "I believe in teaching truth, even when it’s sad, ugly, and unjust. I believe that in doing so, we are giving ALL students the opportunity to develop empathy for others to do better for our communities and the world. When we teach our young people to reflect on where we’ve been we instill skills that allow them to think critically and with compassion throughout their lives. Imagine the possibilities when they become policy makers and leaders - humans who can listen to, disagree with, and COMPROMISE without stripping away each other’s dignity and HUMANITY. We OWE it to our children to set them on a path with tools to improve the lives of all" and "you can’t educate with lies".
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 |
|---|---|
| Carrie Hurst | I believe in teaching truth, even when it’s sad, ugly, and unjust. I believe that in doing so, we are giving ALL students the opportunity to develop empathy for others to do better for our communities and the world. When we teach our young people to reflect on where we’ve been we instill skills that allow them to think critically and with compassion throughout their lives. Imagine the possibilities when they become policy makers and leaders - humans who can listen to, disagree with, and COMPROMISE without stripping away each other’s dignity and HUMANITY. We OWE it to our children to set them on a path with tools to improve the lives of all. |
| Gabriel Kelly | you can’t educate with lies. |
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