Number of teachers pledging to teach Critical Race Theory in Watsonville stagnates at eight

By Santa Cruz Standard

Oct 19, 2021

There were no new teachers in Watsonville who signed the pledge on Oct. 17, according to an online pledge from the Zinn Education Project.

The pledge was signed by no teachers on Oct. 16, the day before. It now has eight pledges from Watsonville 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 Watsonville teachers included, "Because I believe it is essential that students learn and understand the history and present day reality of racism (heterosexism, sexism, etc) in our country. We can't clean up a mess that we don't even see" and "The truth will set this country FREE! FREE AT LAST, FREE AT LAST!".

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 in Watsonville who’ve pledged to teach Critical Race Theory

Teachers	Thoughts on Critical Race Theory
Akiko Minami	Students deserve to learn the true history of our country, the world, and current events. They are engaged in these discussions and develop strong critical thinking skills. They have a right to know the truth, the good and the bad.
Alexandro Ochoa	I am committed to the truth
Anna Castillo	the truth is the only thing that should be taught in schools.
Irene McGinty	No comment
Janeen Harris	I refuse to lie to my students.
Jovita Molina	The truth will set this country FREE! FREE AT LAST, FREE AT LAST!
Margo Ross	Because I believe it is essential that students learn and understand the history and present day reality of racism (heterosexism, sexism, etc) in our country. We can't clean up a mess that we don't even see.
Samantha Bleisch	No comment