America s Students Deserve a History and Civics Education Free of Political Agendas | RealClearPublicAffairs
Across the political spectrum, Americans are recognizing the importance not just of school choice but of what students actually learn in schools. Elected representatives have finally taken notice as well. In Michigan, the state legislature has proposed two bills that seek to address how American history and civics are taught.
Unfortunately, some want teachers to tell students that they should understand American history primarily by looking for racism, injustice, and oppression. The phrase critical race theory (CRT) has been used mainly in academia to describe this filter on history and civic instruction.
This pedagogical method, however, is inaccurate and myopic. Such a view can lead to acts of outright racism and vengeance in order to correct the real or perceived injustices of the past. In this view, two wrongs do make a right.
Objecting to critical race theory in education marks a significant moment. Policymakers who stand in the face of what amounts to disingenuous and racist teaching are showing spiritedness and courage. As millions of American parents have expressed, these policymakers are worthy of commendation.
But merely opposing something is not enough, not for the educations of millions of students and especially not for political support. One must offer an alternative one that is appealing because it is true and good.