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 Brentwood teachers included, "We have an obligation to tell the truth" and "I deeply know that none of us are free until all of us are free. I cannot lie about myself, our history, and work towards my own or anyone else's freedom at the same time".
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 |
|---|---|
| Ashley Gourley | No comment |
| Teresa Dunleavy | We have an obligation to tell the truth. |
| Zo Clement | I deeply know that none of us are free until all of us are free. I cannot lie about myself, our history, and work towards my own or anyone else's freedom at the same time. |
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