La Raza studies teachers file lawsuit
Posted: Oct 18, 2010 10:16 PM
Updated: Oct 19, 2010 5:07 AM
TUCSON - HB 2281, a measure to end Tucson Unified School's ethnic studies program is set to go into law at the end of this year. But supporters of the courses say they're not backing down and are challenging the law's legality.
Monday night, the group Save Ethnic Studies held a news conference about the lawsuit they've filed against HB 2281.
TUSD educators say the basis of the lawsuit is discrimination and free speech.
The 11 plaintiffs in the lawsuit are all ethnic studies teachers.
Sean Arce says, "I am defending the teaching of Mexican American Chicano history, culture and the contributions. So that my own children Mya and Ameliano know the importance of where they came from and where they are going."
Supporters say the courses promote heritage, but Dr. Tom Horne, Superintendent of Public Instruction says la raza studies intimidate and divide students based on race.
In a statement to News 4, Dr. Horne who is named in the suit says quote, "I have letters from teachers and former teachers detailing the radical agenda that takes place in these
