No new teachers sign the pledge the week before. It now has three pledges from Elkridge teachers by the end of the week ending Feb. 26.
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.
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 |
|---|---|
| Pattie Holy-Ilenda | The truth should be indisputable. History will only repeat itself if educators lie and teach "fake news" and misinformation. The oppressed will only grow in number if tyranny and white privilege are allowed to flourish. My students come from every creed, race, background, and lifestyle. Each and every one of my students should know they belong and are celebrated just as they are. Additionally, my students should learn that bigotry and hate have no place in our classroom, school, and society. If I am propelled to lie about issues that have had an impact upon the development of our nation as a result of laws made by myopic and bigoted politicians, then I may as well be telling my students that their stories do not matter, and I will not do that. I stand against all laws that require me to teach anything but the truth. |
| Laura Swann | I want to teach the truth in our schools. |
| Alana Murray | “no comment” |
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