For Immediate Release - January 16, 2024 Contact: Deb Howes, president@aft-nh.org
AFT-NH on Request for Summary Judgment on Divisive Concepts Law
CONCORD, N.H.—Statement by American Federation of Teachers-New Hampshire President Deb Howes on today’s oral arguments before the U.S. District Court for the District of New Hampshire, requesting summary judgment on the divisive concepts law:
“The divisive concepts law is unconstitutional, a hindrance to students’ ability to receive an honest education and a cudgel being held over teachers’ heads to limit truthful lessons. Instead of a long drawn-out trial, AFT-NH is asking the court to grant summary judgment and rule that this law has had a chilling effect on the free speech of teachers and school staff due to fear of being punished for violating some undefined and vague definition of a divisive concept.
“This law is robbing our students of the robust public education they deserve. New Hampshire teachers should not be restricted from teaching honestly about history, gender, race or identity. We can’t let extremists take over our public education system and limit inquiry and discussion and the right of all students to become engaged citizens in the real world. We shouldn’t go through another school year with teachers afraid their careers will be jeopardized, with some even leaving the profession, over an unconstitutional, politically inspired law.”
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