The pledge was signed by no teachers on Jan. 9, the day before. It now has five pledges from Tucson 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 Tucson teachers included, "hiding or changing history allows its crimes to be perpetually committed" and "I will not lie to my students".
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 |
|---|---|
| Arthur Almquist | My students are smart. They can handle the truth, and can see through the agenda of these laws and those who push them. |
| Isabella Porchas | No comment |
| Katie Vera | hiding or changing history allows its crimes to be perpetually committed. |
| Megan Carney | No comment |
| Susan Whorley | I will not lie to my students. |
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