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 Rockville teachers included, "I am committed to ending the gaslighting of young minds. Truth is the only path toward empathy, reconciliation and change" and "The foundation of democracy is truthful education. We will not improve if our society is built on 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 |
---|---|
Martin Bergoffen | The foundation of democracy is truthful education. We will not improve if our society is built on lies. |
Martin Bergoffen | The truth matters. |
Sarada Devi Jasti Currie | I also refuse to lie to my students. |
Wendy Root | I am committed to ending the gaslighting of young minds. Truth is the only path toward empathy, reconciliation and change. |