HB580/SB623 is the proposed legislation to ban "critical race theory" (or any mention of racism and sexism) in Tennessee classrooms and allowing TNDOE to withhold funding from any school or district that chooses to proceed with curriculum and supplemental materials that include these subjects or any mention of white oppression.

The TN House passed the bill with amended language Tuesday, May 4th, sending it to the TN Senate. The Senate sent the bill to the conference committee, with members being appointed May 5th. This last action could open the bill up to additional prohibitions, creating further harm.

At the state level, representatives and senators from the Big 4 counties have spoken out against the bill, but it is likely to pass onto Gov. Lee's desk. State-level education organizations released a joint letter in opposition to HB580, which can be found here: EdTrust Letter.

We don't believe we need to articulate the harm this bill will have on our children's education. Studies have shown that when marginalized youth cannot see themselves in their curriculum, they struggle with connecting to the learning. Speaking out vociferously and taking all possible actions is necessary to defend this attack on the identity and the educational future of the youth of Shelby County.

We are joining together to oppose this amended bill and any actions to make it worse.