Against the backdrop of the heated debate on immigration, Jan Brewer, the Governor of Arizona signed the Ethnic Studies Ban in 2010 (HB 2281). In essence, the ban stipulates that classes on Mexican-Americans and other racial and ethnic minorities will not be allowed in the Tuscon Unified School District. Recently, that law was upheld.
The reasons for the ban make it clear that this law was not designed to promote educational excellence and provide students with the tools they absolutely need in a global environment. The reasons offered by the proponents of this law? Courses such as these teach resentment toward Whites, teach the material in a biased manner, and promote hateful discourse and political unrest. I am sure Jan Brewer and her staff had scientific evidence and good reasons to back up these allegations. I just can’t think of any.
If indeed an ethnic studies course had these outcomes, does the blame lie with the course or with the teacher? Blame, white guilt, hateful discourse are criticisms that have traditionally been made of diversity training. But when ethnic studies and diversity are taught in a way that is inclusive, respectful, non-political and educational, students benefit in many ways. And this includes white students as well as students who are racial and ethnic minorities. Indeed, I would argue that white students in this Arizona school district and elsewhere need these courses as much, if not more. Moreover, students who are not exposed to “ethnic studies” in some way, shape, or form will be at a serious disadvantage when they enter college or the job market.
Next week: Part Two
Next week: Why White Students in Particular Need Ethnic Studies Courses (Part Two)