A school in California has come under fire for teaching its students that white people have “no culture.” The lesson, which was part of a diversity training program, reportedly claimed that white people’s culture is “based on oppression and exploitation.”
A Parent Raised Concerns
A parent raised concerns with the San Ramon Valley Unified School District last week, claiming that her daughter was instructed about white privilege during a choir class and informed by an “equity teacher” that white people lack a distinct culture.
Turning Point USA
The lesson plan, which was obtained by the conservative group Turning Point USA (TPUSA), states that “white culture is a culture of oppression and exploitation” and that “white people have no culture of their own.” The lesson plan also claims that “white people are the beneficiaries of a system that has been designed to benefit them at the expense of others.”
A Large Following
It was founded in 2012 by Charlie Kirk and Bill Montgomery. TPUSA’s interconnected affiliate groups include Turning Point Endowment, Turning Point Action, and TPUSA Faith. TPUSA’s mission is “to identify, educate, train, and organize students to promote freedom.” Some have criticized the organization for its conservative views and its tactics, which have been described as “aggressive” and “divisive.”
Parents are Outraged
After becoming aware of the policy, parents and critics of the lesson plan have expressed outrage, calling it “racist” and “divisive.” Some have even called for the school to be shut down. “This is outrageous,” said one parent. “My child is being taught that they are inherently racist because of the color of their skin. This is not okay.” Another parent said, “This is not diversity training. This is indoctrination. They are trying to teach our children to hate themselves and their race.”
Students are Divided
One parent said, “As a parent of a choir student, having outside instruction regarding white privilege with the choir students was incredibly hurtful, demeaning, and demeaning to many students in the class . “The woman went on to say. “It not only created division and confusion between the students, but it was also incorrect information.”
Dangerous Ideology
Critics of the lesson plan say that it is based on a dangerous ideology that promotes racial division and hatred. They say that it is important to teach children about diversity and inclusion but also to teach them about the contributions of all cultures, including white culture. The San Ramon Valley Unified School District has a history of encountering controversy surrounding sensitive topics. A proposal to raise a Pride flag during June sparked a heated public discussion as parents questioned the need to teach children about gender and sexuality at school.
Rich and Diverse Culture
People leaped to the defense of white culture, with one critic saying, “White people have a rich and diverse culture that has made significant contributions to the world. “They went on to say, “It is important to teach our children about this culture so that they can appreciate their heritage and the heritage of others.” In response to the controversy, one online commentator said, “Maybe not as a whole, but there are dozens and dozens of different cultures within the white community. French, Irish, German, Polish, English, Danish…… All white, and all have their own distinct cultures.”
Understanding White Privilege
The school district has defended the lesson plan, saying that it is designed to help students understand the concept of white privilege. The district has also said it is committed to teaching students about diversity and inclusion. According to the website, the school district has partnered with a dedicated equity specialist to address inequities within the school environment and curriculum, effectively removing obstacles hindering personal and academic growth. The school’s website hopes to “interrupt any inequitable practices in school culture and curriculum and eliminate barriers to personal and academic success.”
A Divisive Lesson
However, the school district’s defense has not satisfied critics, who say that the lesson plan is still racist and divisive. They say that it is important to teach students about white privilege but that it is also important to do so in a way that does not promote racial hatred.
The Role of Race in Education
The controversy over the lesson plan has sparked a debate about the role of race in education. Some people believe that schools should teach students about race and racism, while others believe that this will only promote racial division. Finding a balance between promoting understanding, dismantling racism, and respecting diverse perspectives. The mom who initially raised concerns has called for an opt-out system, saying, “It is apparent that there are things that are being taught to our children where the district or the school does not provide a necessary opt-in or opt-out form for parents.”
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