The pledge was signed by no teachers on Dec. 27, the day before. It now has eight pledges from Paterson 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 Paterson teachers included, "I am signing because I feel this is a hot button topic that must be addressed. I’m honored to put my name here in support of this movement" and "I am a Founding Member of the Passaic County Equity Seekers and one of our objectives is to lift up the voices of all who have been a part of American and World history. We intentionally and actively engage in promoting racial equity and social justice among our colleagues, fellow union members, communities and students. Consequently, signing this petition is important our members and me".
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 |
|---|---|
| Corey Teague | I am signing because I feel this is a hot button topic that must be addressed. I’m honored to put my name here in support of this movement. |
| Lakresha Hodge | No comment |
| Lizandaa Alburg | I am a Founding Member of the Passaic County Equity Seekers and one of our objectives is to lift up the voices of all who have been a part of American and World history. We intentionally and actively engage in promoting racial equity and social justice among our colleagues, fellow union members, communities and students. Consequently, signing this petition is important our members and me. |
| Lizandaa Alburg | I know the power of teaching the truth. The truth is not subject to opinion, acceptance or approval. If I present the facts from all perspectives, the truth cannot be denied. I am a Founding Member of a group called the Passaic County Equity Seekers and we promote teaching the truth in an effort to attain racial equity and social justice. |
| Marcella Simadiris | I am committed to the truth |
| Marcella Simadiris | I believe in the spirit of truth. |
| Mickey Mariash | I think it’s imperative to teach kids the truth, address the difficult conversations, and change the narrative. |
| Shanikwa Lemon | No comment |
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