No new teachers sign the pledge the week before. It now has five pledges from Baton Rouge teachers by the end of the week ending Jan. 15.
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 new Baton Rouge teachers included “I'M WITCHA LETS DO IT IN YESHUA'S NAME AMEN.” and “Facts are important.”.
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 |
|---|---|
| Joseph Davis | I'M WITCHA LETS DO IT IN YESHUA'S NAME AMEN. |
| Erin Fuson | “no comment” |
| Kealy Duke | Politicians should not interfere in curriculum decisions, and students should make their own decisions based on truthful instruction. Not prioritizing education has brought us to this moment where ignorance and racism disguised as political authority can dictate what professionals teach. |
| Carolyn Boutte | “no comment” |
| Deborah McElgin | Facts are important. |
Alerts Sign-up