No new teachers sign the pledge the week before. It now has two pledges from Red Bank teachers by the end of the week ending Aug. 14.
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. 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 |
|---|---|
| Judith Pack | People living in a democracy should be informed. Children should learn the truth of their country’s history and not be told lies and fairy tales. Lee cannot be considered a beacon of fairness and light, an example for the world, unless our citizens know the truth and work to make the U.S. actually live up to its ideals. |
| Christina Roy | I will not continue the lies of white supremacy and nationalism. I will teach critical thinkers who question their government. |
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