TO THE EDITOR:

     In response to Ms. Swanson’s letter to the editor in the May 15, 2021 edition of the Patriot, I would argue that equity is exactly what our students in the Big Lake Schools need. Equity is providing each person the resources that he/she needs, while equality is providing everyone the exact same resources. If my child is struggling in reading, and your child is struggling in math, I would hope that our teachers would recognize that and provide my child the extra support in reading and your child the extra support in math. While that may not be equal, it certainly is fair and appropriate. As a special education teacher, I am required to provide service based on the individual needs of my students. If I neglect to do that, I am not providing a free and appropriate education. An effective education system is based on equity and not equality.

Melissa Trutna

Big Lake, MN

TO THE EDITOR:

    Critical Race Theory (CRT) training is coming to a school or business near you. Under the banner of equity, CRT is a divisive ideology that places moral worth on people based on the color of their skin. Minorities are uniformly portrayed as victims while whites are uniformly portrayed as victimizers and racists. This is an effort to distort history and bring about a cultural revolution. Clearly the roots of CRT, in language and intent, are planted firmly in Marxism. According to CRT propaganda, all white people have “white privilege” and are racists, whether they want to be or not. Their “whiteness” must be confessed and renounced, although there is no guarantee of forgiveness. This false doctrine fosters division and even hatred. It comes as no surprise that people are turning against one another. CRT teaches a worldview that others are not allowed to question. The First Amendment protects free speech and freedom of conscience. Requiring teachers and students to take this kind of teaching is a perversion of education; it’s indoctrination. CRT training is infiltrating our schools, our government and our military. We must speak out against this destructive brand of identity politics while we still can.”

(Excerpt of letter used with permission written by: Barb Anderson, Champlin ). 

Mary Snider

Big Lake