The pledge was signed by seven teachers the month before. It now has seven pledges from Longmont teachers by June.
They are 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. Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, New Hampshire, Florida, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Tennessee have passed legislation banning discussions about the US being inherently racist.
Other states, such as Montana and Georgia, have denounced the teachings and are discussing a ban on critical race theory teachings.
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 |
|---|---|
| Jean Evans | I am extremely concerned that any subjects or materials are being banned. We should be teaching the truth which also includes the truth about the division of races. Biologically we are one human race and students need to know that. |
| Michael Rees | I've been a teacher for nearly 25 years and have earned two degrees in United States History and I am dedicated to using empiricism and reason in seeking the truth and I am further dedicated to teaching my students to do the same. -Michael James Rees, James Madison Fellow of the United States Constitution. |
| Katie Torres | The truth matters. |
| Lynn Lovett Barr | “no comment” |
| Althea Harris | I choose teaching the truth to children, all children. |
| Lisa Norton | “no comment” |
| Liv Avery | “no comment” |
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