Teachers across the United States are caught in the crossfire of a complex and politicized landscape when it comes to discussing race and gender identity in the classroom, according to a recent Pew Research Center poll. While they overwhelmingly favor addressing the lingering effects of slavery and believe parents shouldn't be able to opt students out of racism discussions, there's less consensus on how to approach topics related to gender identity.
The majority of teachers surveyed by Pew (nearly 80%) believe that students should be taught about the lasting impact of slavery on today's Black communities. They see this as crucial to fostering understanding and fostering a more just society. JC Pineda, a Texas educator, emphasizes the importance of acknowledging this historical context, stating, "We need to do better."
However, navigating these discussions has become increasingly difficult in the face of recent state-level restrictions on how various topics, including race and gender, are discussed in classrooms. These restrictions often lack clarity and create an uncertain environment for educators, with many fearing repercussions for addressing these issues freely. As Kristina Eisenhower, an Arkansas elementary school instructor, explains, "Teachers are scared of the backlash. We have to be very careful about what we teach."
The Pew poll also reveals differing viewpoints among parents and teenagers on how schools should approach topics related to slavery. While a significant portion of both groups favor teaching slavery solely as a historical event, a stark racial divide emerges. The majority of Black parents and teenagers believe curricula should acknowledge the enduring effects of slavery on their communities. This disparity highlights the need for nuanced and sensitive approaches that incorporate diverse perspectives.
When it comes to discussing racism in the classroom, teenagers remain divided, with only 38% expressing comfort with such discussions. Interestingly, Black teenagers are the most likely to report discomfort, possibly reflecting increased awareness of the complex and often painful realities associated with systemic racism.
The poll also delves into discussions regarding gender identity, revealing limited support across all groups (teachers, parents, and teenagers) for explicitly teaching that a child's gender can differ from their assigned sex at birth. While a majority of teachers (67%) report that these topics rarely or never arise organically in their classrooms, nearly half believe parents should have the right to opt their children out of such discussions.
Interestingly, opinions seem to shift at the high school level. A separate poll by the University of Southern California indicates greater support for incorporating LGBTQ history units among high schoolers (52%) compared to elementary schoolers (27%). This suggests a potential evolution in perspective and growing openness to such discussions as students mature.
Finding Common Ground: As educators navigate this ever-evolving landscape, fostering open communication with colleagues, students, and their families remains crucial. By embracing diverse perspectives, prioritizing factual information, and promoting critical thinking skills, they can empower students to engage in meaningful discussions and contribute to a more inclusive and informed society.
