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 Bayonne teachers included, "Knowing one's privilege is extremely important. As a White heterosexual male, I understand that educating my students about the voices in history that have been excluded is vital if we really want to make our world a better place. For me this is real patriotism; challenging our bigoted past in our to make a more inclusive future" and "Students need to know the truth about our country. It isn't anti-American or unpatriotic to learn and understand that there is a lot in our history as a nation that is uncomfortable to discuss, and may be upsetting, but it needs to be talked about".
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 |
|---|---|
| Gene Woods | Knowing one's privilege is extremely important. As a White heterosexual male, I understand that educating my students about the voices in history that have been excluded is vital if we really want to make our world a better place. For me this is real patriotism; challenging our bigoted past in our to make a more inclusive future. |
| Lisa Kawalek | Students need to know the truth about our country. It isn't anti-American or unpatriotic to learn and understand that there is a lot in our history as a nation that is uncomfortable to discuss, and may be upsetting, but it needs to be talked about. |
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