The pledge was signed by seven teachers on March 9, the day before. It now has 11 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, "Truth is important and our kids need to know it, learn it, and grow from it" and "An educated student is one who can think critically about current events. One who will not be fooled into thinking these events are new. And one who will know that they can make change and have a positive impact. Educated students will educate others, recognizing bigotry in systems and individuals. I stand with Zinn Education Project in this mission".
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. |
| Dr. Pauline Schmidt | Truth is important and our kids need to know it, learn it, and grow from it. |
| Erin Haley | The manipulation of what CRT is has created a hysterical reaction that undermines the reality that CRT is higher-concept learning at the university level; not taught at primary or secondary levels. As a result, parents and administrators have become equally hysterical and candid in their desire to whitewash history and make it ‘pretty’ rather than truthful. |
| John Flagler | In order to address the issues of white supremacy in the United States, teachers must address white supremacy in school curriculum. |
| Kelly Dillon | Truth and transparency are essential to understanding and growth. |
| Leslie Barr | When we do not learn our history, we are doomed to repeat it. |
| Mary Buckelew | No comment |
| Rebecca McAllister | An educated student is one who can think critically about current events. One who will not be fooled into thinking these events are new. And one who will know that they can make change and have a positive impact. Educated students will educate others, recognizing bigotry in systems and individuals. I stand with Zinn Education Project in this mission. |
| 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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