Our Superintendent of Public Instruction, Elsie Arntzen, isn't representing all Montana students. Her recent opinion piece is based on fear and disinformation. Her words paint a negative and false portrait that the current American history and civic engagement curriculum is unbiased. However, we know that our curriculum and history are rooted in colonization and white supremacy that perpetuates racism and white dominance. Her statement joins the national discussion on Critical Race Theory and in response, our Attorney General, Austin Knudsen, has encouraged banning this theoretical framework from our schools. Implementing a culturally responsive curriculum that acknowledges the oppressive systems that continue to negatively impact American citizens is our responsibility. Montana currently has one of the highest hate groups per capita (Southern Poverty Law Center, 2020), signaling the urgent need for integrating culturally responsive learning in Montana schools. This is an example of how past injustice in our country is still impacting our communities today. 

Currently, our youth must seek outside resources to learn inclusive history, identify oppressive systems, and develop the skills to effectively transform institutions. Culturally responsive learning teaches critical thinking, supports building relationships across group lines, effectively reduces discrimination, and cultivates youth resilience. Opponents to Critical Race Theory, if you will not represent our youth and their education, our youth will continue to resist and seek the truth. Sign below to commit. Join us in elevating Montana's diverse youth voices, critical thinking, and culturally responsive learning. Persist, and follow their lead.