The pledge was signed by no teachers on Nov. 26, the day before. It now has two pledges from Newmarket 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 Newmarket teachers included, "real history matters! Our students deserve to learn the facts" and "Understanding the role race has played in our history only allows for true academic and social growth. Ignoring race only leads to conflict and misunderstanding. It is NOT about political correctness nor cancel culture it IS about moving forward with understanding and positive intent".
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 |
---|---|
Joanne Lazarus | Understanding the role race has played in our history only allows for true academic and social growth. Ignoring race only leads to conflict and misunderstanding. It is NOT about political correctness nor cancel culture it IS about moving forward with understanding and positive intent. |
Kristi Lockhart | real history matters! Our students deserve to learn the facts. |