Rockingham Times

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) is supporting Granite State parents and educators in a federal lawsuit, which challenges New Hampshire’s restrictions on teaching about what many refer to as “divisive concepts."

The suit was filed on Dec. 13.

According to U.S. News and World Report, Deb Howes, AFT president of the New Hampshire chapter, said the law has created fear among teachers who are not violating any state law but feel they may be targeted without evidence, due to people pushing a political agenda. New Hampshire is one of eight states, which are Republican-controlled, that have passed laws restricting how teachers discuss topics relating sex, race and inequality. The law was passed by Gov. Chris Sununu (R) in June. 

The Hammond Teachers' Federation spoke in favor of the lawsuit on Twitter, as well as posting a graphic showing the state of New Hampshire with the words next to it: “I support New Hampshire public education: Bedrock of the Granite State."

“Breaking: AFT New Hampshire, three New Hampshire public school teachers and two parents of public school students filed a lawsuit against the Divisive Concepts law. I support their fight to defend public education and teaching honest history. Share this graphic to show that you’re Public School Proud!" Hammond Teachers Federation tweeted on Dec. 14.

According to U.S. News and World Report, residents of New Hampshire can log onto a website to report teachers, as well as being able to sue the school district if they believe teachers are in violation of the law by teaching about prohibited subjects. The law says the Board of Education can also fire teachers and even revoke their teaching licenses.

"Nothing in this language prevents schools from teaching any aspect of  American history, such as teaching about racism, sexism or slavery," Sununu said, according to U.S. News and World Report. "It  simply ensures that children will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, gender, sexual identity or religion."