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 Brighton teachers included, "I am afraid for our democracy, and legislation banning something that is not even taught, is VERY DANGEROUS!!! Democracy is being threatened and I am on the front lines daily. Students have access to all information online, so by manipulating our teaching, they hope to continue White Supremacy, and BLACK LIVES MATTER!!!" and "I will not allow my students to live in ignorance about how we have come to our position today in society".
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 |
|---|---|
| Alden Dearborn | No comment |
| Deborah Figueroa | No comment |
| Julia Gustin | I will not allow my students to live in ignorance about how we have come to our position today in society. |
| Molly Camp | No comment |
| Shannon Headley | I am afraid for our democracy, and legislation banning something that is not even taught, is VERY DANGEROUS!!! Democracy is being threatened and I am on the front lines daily. Students have access to all information online, so by manipulating our teaching, they hope to continue White Supremacy, and BLACK LIVES MATTER!!! |
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