The pledge was signed by no teachers on March 6, the day before. It now has four pledges from West Chester 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 West Chester teachers included, "As a country, we should not be scared to analyze our past and learn from our mistakes. Knowledge is power, and critical thinking will lead to a better country" and "Children need to learn the full truth about the history of this country. It is what they deserve".
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 |
|---|---|
| Corinne Greskiewicz | As a country, we should not be scared to analyze our past and learn from our mistakes. Knowledge is power, and critical thinking will lead to a better country. |
| Seth Kahn | I don't want there to be any secret about the fact that I'm committed to racial justice (and all forms of anti-bigotry) in my teaching. |
| Shelagh Wilson | Children need to learn the full truth about the history of this country. It is what they deserve. |
| Vanessa Winn | No comment |
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