Critical Race Theory (CRT) points out differences between the ideals expressed in the Constitution, and the realities enacted in our laws and demonstrated in how we treat various groups of people. Through this lens, systemic racism becomes clear.
In U.S. public schools, children are often taught a skewed version of our country’s history. From the first Europeans to land on this continent, to the founding fathers, up through the present day, American history puts too much emphasis on accomplishments of white men, and too little on everything else. Children need to be taught a more complete view of U.S. history, including our terrible mistakes – the genocide of Native Americans; the true story of what happened to enslaved people (and other Black and brown people) even after emancipation, including Jim Crow laws, mass incarceration, and suppression of voting rights; racist policies that have affected groups of immigrants, such as the Chinese Exclusion Act and Japanese internment camps. They also need to be taught the many contributions of men and women of color. Many good people have struggled with these issues and have worked to right these wrongs, but the issues cannot simply be ignored.
Teachers are in a unique position to help students of all ages see the U.S. through a lens of equity with the books they read, the lessons they prepare, and the conversations they lead. Children need to learn this honest history, starting at a young age, so they can better understand our complex multicultural society. If these topics are discussed respectfully and appropriately, students will gain a deeper appreciation for the many cultures that coexist in our country and be better prepared to work toward creating real justice, equity and compassion in our communities and in our government. Without this understanding, there is little hope for change.
On Sunday October 24 at 1 pm you can attend a talk-back session about CRT with Rev. Sally Fritsche following her sermon on this topic.