Investigates the Intellectual Threat Posed by Fascists Against Educators, Revealing Democracy's Vulnerability Due to Education Assaults
Randi Weingarten, the president of the American Federation of Teachers since 2008, has published a new book titled 'Why Fascists Fear Teachers: Public Education And The Future Of Democracy.' The book, released in 2021, argues that public education and teachers play a crucial role in protecting democracy and standing against anti-freedom forces. Weingarten's book comes at a time when political attacks on teachers have increased, particularly after the return from COVID-19 school closures. She contends that the Trump administration's actions regarding education are part of a plan to weaken democracy. The administration, for instance, plans to lay off at least half of the Department of Education's workforce, affecting more than 1,000 people. The book also highlights the importance of project-based instruction and career tech ed, once stigmatized, in creating democratic habits and knowledge in students. Weingarten points out that 95% of students from career tech ed schools graduate, with 70% going on to college. Weingarten describes teachers as 'nation builders' and 'hope agents,' emphasizing their role in shaping the future of democracy. Despite the challenges teachers face, she advises people to pursue teaching if they want to make a difference in children's lives. The book also addresses the role of teachers' unions and their efforts to unionize. Weingarten argues that the interests of kids, families, and teachers are aligned, and the role of the union is to align those interests. She contends that teachers' unions and their efforts to unionize pose a challenge to autocrats. Moreover, Weingarten underscores the importance of public schools as inclusive institutions. She believes that public schools teach kids how to think and live in a diverse environment, which is critical for democracy. However, public schools are under attack by those who oppose diversity and immigration. The President of the United States has reiterated his plans to 'return education back to the individual states.' Weingarten, a longtime teachers' union leader, believes that the federal government's role in education should be to support career and project-based education. Weingarten's book is not just a critique of the current political climate, but also a call to action. She encourages teachers to stand firm in their role as protectors of democracy and champions of inclusive education. The Supreme Court's agreement that the Trump administration can proceed with the Department of Education workforce reduction serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for education and democracy. Nevertheless, Weingarten remains optimistic, stating that the resilience and dedication of teachers will continue to shape the future of our democracy.
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