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 Normal teachers included, "I believe in the power of education and believe in the importance of educating students to learn about the world around them and to be able to become activists and change the world around them" and "I believe in the power of education and believe in the importance of educating students to learn about the world around them and to be able to become activists and change the world around them".
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 |
|---|---|
| Corey Beirne | No comment |
| Stephanie Hedgespeth | I believe in the power of education and believe in the importance of educating students to learn about the world around them and to be able to become activists and change the world around them. |
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