Ban on teaching and training critical race theory.
If passed, HB 0132 would significantly alter the teaching landscape in Wyoming, especially within public schools. The restrictions defined in the bill could limit discussions around historical injustices and diversity training, which many see as crucial for fostering an inclusive education system. Public employees, particularly educators, would face legal repercussions and civil liability if they violate the terms outlined in the legislation, raising concerns about academic freedom and the ability to have comprehensive discussions in classrooms.
House Bill 0132 seeks to ban the teaching and training of critical race theory in schools and state agencies in Wyoming. The bill outlines specific concepts that cannot be presented in instructional settings, emphasizing that no public funds may be used to teach any form of blame based on race, ethnicity, sex, or national origin. It places restrictions on teachers and administrators, prohibiting instruction on perceived biases or systemic discrimination that may lead to feelings of discomfort or guilt among students. This includes any teaching that implies that any race or gender is inherently superior or inferior to another, as well as historical accountability based on race.
The bill has been met with opposition from various educational and civil rights organizations that argue it undermines educational integrity and stifles essential conversations about race and ethnicity. Critics fear that such measures could lead to a depoliticized and oversimplified view of history, impacting students' understanding of their society and the factors that shape it. Proponents of the bill assert that it is a necessary step to prevent what they call indoctrination in schools, framing it as a protective measure for students and a step towards educational equality.