The pledge was signed by no teachers on Nov. 17, the day before. It now has three pledges from Fort Wayne 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 Fort Wayne teachers included, "I refuse to lie to children to appease white fragility. Children deserve to know accurate history about their country" and "I want the students coming into any classroom to have access to the truth by those responsible for their education. They deserve to be prepared to the highest level to engage in society responsibly and adequately".
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 |
|---|---|
| Erin Seely | My well loved and respected history teacher, Mr. Ronald Holmes, taught this to hundreds/thousands of students without issue or controversy. He made us more critical thinkers. Plus it is the right thing to do! |
| Jessica Farlow | I refuse to lie to children to appease white fragility. Children deserve to know accurate history about their country. |
| Sydney Early | I want the students coming into any classroom to have access to the truth by those responsible for their education. They deserve to be prepared to the highest level to engage in society responsibly and adequately. |
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