No new teachers sign the pledge the week before. It now has three pledges from Redmond teachers by the end of the week ending Aug. 14.
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.
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 |
|---|---|
| Sara Clarke | “no comment” |
| Helena Gougeon | I believe the truth needs to be taught and the nuances of history are complex, using critical theory allows for deeper understanding of who we are as Americans and as humans. |
| Saskia Mizushima | Students should not be lied to. Teaching the truth about our history is necessary for us to truly heal as a society. |
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