school district sued for ‘anti-racism’ teaching ban | National policy

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — An Ohio school district’s ban on “anti-racism” education is itself racist and an unconstitutional ban on free speech, according to a federal lawsuit seeking to have the lawsuit overturned. ‘prohibition.

At stake is a resolution to create “a culture of kindness” narrowly approved last week by the Forest Hills School Board in suburban Cincinnati. The resolution bans “anti-racist” programs, education and training and also bans the academic theory known as critical race theory.

Students are banned from courses or assignments that require them to view their race, socioeconomic class, gender identity, or other characteristics as “a loophole or label” to stereotype students as having certain biases or prejudices , under the resolution.

By banning education, programs and training regarding “anti-racism,” the resolution “rather promotes racism by its very definition,” according to the lawsuit filed Wednesday by parents and teachers against Forest school board members. Hill and District. A message was left with the district seeking comment.

Legislation pending in the General Assembly would prohibit schools statewide from requiring or coercing Ohio teachers to affirm their belief in the systemic nature of racism or “the multiplicity or fluidity of gender identities.” “.