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 Altadena teachers included, "Knowing where we have been can lead us to new and better places" and "The only way to end systemic racism is to provide a historical lens other than that of white males".
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 Vanackeren | I do not lie to my students. |
| Emily Rogers | It's time to change the way we teach about our past. |
| Erin Takeuchi | The only way to end systemic racism is to provide a historical lens other than that of white males |
| Jacqueline Beaubien | No comment |
| Kat Ross | Knowing where we have been can lead us to new and better places. |
| Katherine Malone | No comment |
| Newman Clarke | Like Boots Riley sang, “ If your school won't show you how to fight for what's neededThen they're training you to go through life and get cheated.” |
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