Texas Gov. Abbott Signs ‘Critical Race Theory’ Bill Limiting Teaching Of Current Events Into Law
Texas Gov. Abbott Signs ‘Critical Race Theory’ Bill Limiting Teaching of Current Events Into Law
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According to Texas Legislature Online, Gov. Greg Abbott has recently signed a controversial bill that regulates the discussion of current events and the history of racism in Texas classrooms. This action makes Texas one of the few states in the country that has implemented such legislation, with the aim of prohibiting the teaching of "critical race theory" in K-12 public schools.
Critical race theory is an academic concept that examines the impact of race and racism on social and local structures in the United States. GOP leaders have been vocal about their opposition to its inclusion in public school curriculum, citing isolated incidents in various school districts across Texas. Former President Donald Trump even went as far as banning federal employees from participating in training or discussions that revolved around "critical race theory" or "white privilege," deeming it to be propaganda.
The bill underwent several revisions during its journey through the legislative chambers, raising concerns among Texas Democrats that it could hinder classroom conversations. At one point, an amended version appeared to have been defeated due to a procedural violation by State Rep. James Talarico, a Democrat. However, the Texas Senate revived the bill later that evening by reverting back to an earlier approved version and sending it to the governor’s office. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has shown support for the legislation since the beginning of the legislative session.
This law will take effect on September 1st, and it includes a list of foundational documents that must be taught to Texas students. Additionally, it mandates the inclusion of historical documents written by individuals of color and women, a provision that House Democrats had added. Moreover, students will be required to learn about "the history of white supremacy, including but not limited to the institution of slavery, the eugenics movement, and the Ku Klux Klan, and the ways in which it is morally wrong."
However, many educators and education advocacy groups have opposed this bill. They argue that it restricts honest discussions about race and racism in American society, and will compel teachers to present both sides of an issue even when one side may be factually inaccurate or morally unjustifiable. As a result, opponents believe that students will receive a less comprehensive education.
Furthermore, the legislation prohibits students from receiving credit or extra credit for participating in civic activities that involve political activism or lobbying elected officials on specific issues.
The version of the bill signed by the governor also bans the teaching of The New York Times’ 1619 Project, an initiative that explores U.S. history starting from the arrival of enslaved individuals on American soil, considering it as the nation’s foundational date.
Supporters of House Bill 3979 argue that it is necessary to prevent personal biases from infiltrating public education. They point to a few isolated instances in school districts across Texas where parents have expressed concerns. Similar bills have been signed into law by governors in Idaho and Tennessee, while more than a dozen other states are considering similar legislation.
During legislative debates on the bill, supporters raised concerns about teachers unfairly blaming white individuals for historical wrongdoings or distorting the achievements of the founding fathers. In recent years, there has been increased demand for transparency regarding historical figures’ racist beliefs or ties to slavery.
However, education advocacy groups believe that the law is ultimately motivated by political agendas.
"The Republicans’ explicit references to banning Critical Race Theory and the 1619 Project make it clear that they intend to use this as a divisive issue in state and local political races," stated the Texas chapter of the American Federation of Teachers in a late May statement. "This bill is part of a national movement by conservatives to spread a narrative that teachers are indoctrinating students. Our members are rightfully outraged by this insult to their professionalism; they are committed to providing balanced conversations with students on controversial topics."
Governors in Idaho and Tennessee have recently signed similar bills into law, and more than a dozen other states are currently considering comparable legislation.
Kate McGee, a higher education reporter at The Texas Tribune, contributes to informing Texans about public policy, politics, government, and statewide matters through the Texas Tribune, the state’s sole member-supported, digital-first, nonpartisan media organization.
Disclosure: The Texas Tribune receives financial support from the New York Times, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from its members, foundations, and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters have no influence over the Tribune’s journalism. A complete list of financial supporters can be found here.
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