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.
The Portland teacher wrote "The racist history of the United States continues to disproportionately effect Black, Indigenous, and other youth of color. Youth deserve to be heard, seen, and validated in all areas of their lives. The only way our history and society can change is through knowledge and healing; we can do neither when systems continue to burry the past and not acknowledge the history of our country." when pledging to teach Critical Race Theory.
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 |
|---|---|
| Vanessa Grant Coats | The racist history of the United States continues to disproportionately effect Black, Indigenous, and other youth of color. Youth deserve to be heard, seen, and validated in all areas of their lives. The only way our history and society can change is through knowledge and healing; we can do neither when systems continue to burry the past and not acknowledge the history of our country. |
Alerts Sign-up