The pledge was signed by no teachers on March 6, the day before. It now has three pledges from Lancaster 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 Lancaster teachers included, "When we are brave enough to face the truth we break the toxic cycles of history. This is how we become a more perfect union" and "It’s important for all people to understand and hear the voices of everyone that makes up the United States and not just those who held power".
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 |
|---|---|
| Amanda Schlee | Students deserve the truth. |
| Billie Martin | It’s important for all people to understand and hear the voices of everyone that makes up the United States and not just those who held power. |
| Tracy Smith | When we are brave enough to face the truth we break the toxic cycles of history. This is how we become a more perfect union. |
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