Wheat Ridge High School students work on assignments in their sophomore AP U.S. History class on Sept. 25. (Andy Cross, The Denver Post)
The recent Jeffco school board controversy reveals key differences about the stories at the heart of American history.
History teachers are often reformers at heart, inspired by the ideals of our country’s history — extending the blessings of liberty or establishing justice for all. Yet most want students to examine America’s past from varied perspectives — not just that of the slave owner but also the slave; not just successful male entrepreneur but also female textile worker. The American promise as a land of opportunity could ring hollow for those not privileged by circumstance or accident of birth.
In the end, U.S. history is the more inspiring when one examines the struggles of groups which have endured discrimination that still appeal to American ideals to challenge their exploiters and protest collectively to secure liberty’s blessings. Commemoration of heroic ideals can be balanced with critique.
R. Todd Laugen, Denver
The writer teaches history at Metropolitan State University of Denver.
This letter was published in the Oct. 12 edition.
Submit a letter to the editor via this form or check out our guidelines for how to submit by e-mail or mail.
