RALEIGH, N.C. - This morning, the N.C. Senate passed House Bill 324 (HB 324), a bill that would restrict lessons about racism and sexism in the classroom. While it does not name Critical Race Theory explicitly, HB 324 joins legislation across the country that seeks to prohibit educators from tackling topics related to racism, sexism, white supremacy, diversity, and equity with their students. The ACLU strongly condemns this legislation and urges Governor Cooper to veto this bill should it reach his desk.  

Chantal Stevens, executive director for the ACLU of North Carolina, issued the following statement after the N.C. Senate passed HB 324:

“Unfortunately, North Carolina lawmakers are responding to calls for racial justice with flagrant attempts to interfere with how teachers discuss and teach about power, race, and gender identity in the classroom. Our students deserve a comprehensive education that presents as many voices, theories, and ideas as possible. 

“Teachers guide their students through nuanced ideas daily, and this bill creates a chilling effect on what teachers feel empowered to discuss and limits our students’ ability to be fully engaged in how society addresses these issues. Rather than run from tough topics, we should be tackling them head-on. Our country would be better for it. 

“Learning about white supremacy, discrimination, and countless other histories that have harmed women, Black and Brown people, and/or LGBTQ+ people empowers us to address ongoing disparities in our communities. Those advancing this bill, including Lieutenant Governor Robinson and Senator Phil Berger, are stoking racial tensions, sowing division, and using a straw man to limit students’ educational experiences.   

“This bill is an example of government interference in students’ education. We urge members of the state House of Representatives and the Governor to stop HB 324 from becoming law.”

 

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