Number of teachers pledging to teach Critical Race Theory in Aurora stagnates at four in week ending March 19

By Kane County Reporter

Mar 24, 2022

There were no new teachers in Aurora who signed the pledge in week ending March 19, according to an online pledge from the Zinn Education Project.

The pledge was signed by three teachers the week before. It now has four pledges from Aurora teachers by the end of the week ending March 19.

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.

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. Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, New Hampshire, Florida, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Tennessee have passed legislation banning discussions about the US being inherently racist.

Other states, such as Montana and Georgia, have denounced the teachings and are discussing a ban on critical race theory teachings.

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 in Aurora who’ve pledged to teach Critical Race Theory

Teachers	Thoughts on Critical Race Theory
Erica Conwell	We need to be able to share the different stories that has helped shape our nation. As well as help students understand how things within our society has effected us from the past and continues to influence things that are happening today in our society. "You don't know where you are going until you know where you have been." We will be doomed to repeat the same mistakes if we are not able to teach history through multiple perspectives.
Deatrice Childs	Truth is what can bring forth growth as a nation.
Rebecca Walker	It is our responsibility as educators to provide opportunities for students to develop the skills necessary to participate fully in our democracy and openingly address the challenges of our society. This includes providing space for young people of ALL ages to think critically, to question injustice, to distinguish fact from misinformation, and to explore a variety of diverse perspectives. Lessons that are intentionally anti-bias, anti-racist, and focused on respectfully discussing the truth of history are essential. I refuse to lie to my students.
David Kettley	The truth has been hidden too long. It is past time for everyone to acknowledge the truth about our history as United States citizens, and as citizens of the World.