The pledge was signed by no teachers on Dec. 28, the day before. It now has three pledges from Carlsbad 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 Carlsbad teachers included, "Teaching children a full history, inclusive of many diverse voices and perspectives, leads us to a more compassionate, critical thinking, and inclusive citizenry. I am devoted to this mission as an educator, for the benefit of all children and for this country’s future" and "Knowing our history gives the ability to understand our present with the intention of creating a more just future".
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 |
|---|---|
| Haley MacKenzie | Education without the perspectives of and impact on marginalized people is just propaganda. |
| Megan Pincus-Kajitani | Teaching children a full history, inclusive of many diverse voices and perspectives, leads us to a more compassionate, critical thinking, and inclusive citizenry. I am devoted to this mission as an educator, for the benefit of all children and for this country’s future. |
| Michael Melzer | Knowing our history gives the ability to understand our present with the intention of creating a more just future. |
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