No new teachers sign the pledge the week before. It now has four pledges from Pittsfield 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 |
|---|---|
| Courtney Meisberger | I think that our students need to get a balanced view of history, including the voices of those who have traditionally been marginalized. We are a wonderful country, and our students need to know the truth. |
| Matt Webster | I live in a state that does not have these horrible laws. However these laws being passed anywhere damage our society. |
| Susan Sauve | I refuse to lie to young people about U.S. history and current events — regardless of the law. |
| Kimberly Boland | “no comment” |
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