The pledge was signed by no teachers on Jan. 23, the day before. It now has four pledges from Eureka teachers.
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 Eureka teachers included, "I refuse to let Republicans whitewash history. Our children deserve to learn a true account of American history and be exposed to a wide array of voices. Teachers will not be muzzled by politicians who are not experts in curriculum and instruction" and "I believe that when children understand where our country has come from and the true flaws and struggles we are trying to overcome, they are able to make choices that heal and bring our people closer together. Knowledge is power and that power can truly bridge our communities".
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 |
|---|---|
| Julie Fanucchi | we must teach the truth! |
| Justin Dixon | I refuse to let Republicans whitewash history. Our children deserve to learn a true account of American history and be exposed to a wide array of voices. Teachers will not be muzzled by politicians who are not experts in curriculum and instruction. |
| Marisol Ruiz | No comment |
| Tina Peretz | I believe that when children understand where our country has come from and the true flaws and struggles we are trying to overcome, they are able to make choices that heal and bring our people closer together. Knowledge is power and that power can truly bridge our communities. |
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