Most college students, including a majority of white students, believe that racism is so rooted in America that whites need to be “re-educated” on the issue, and one way is through the forced teaching of critical race theory.
In a survey of students from McLaughlin & Associates for Yale University’s William F. Buckley, Jr. Program, 71% agreed that “systemic racism is a big problem in society today and white people still contribute to it, whether they realize it or not.”
What’s more, 66% said that “most white Americans need to be re-educated about the true history of America and what it means to be actively anti-racist.”
And when it comes to changing the nation’s view of racism, 59% told the pollster that they “favor allowing the teaching of critical race theory in all high schools and colleges, which says America is founded on white supremacy and most laws and institutions in America today are inherently racist.”
The survey, focused on free speech and the Constitution, was the first evidence that the next generation is behind the teaching of critical race theory in schools. Across the nation, parents are clashing with school boards over the theory being taught.
The poll did find sweeping support for the Constitution and First Amendment, though that message was mixed, with sizable support for muzzling speech students felt was hateful.
Key findings:
- 55% said the Constitution is a very important document that needs to be followed and respected, compared to 31% who say it is outdated.
- 80% said the First Amendment is important and needs to be followed.
- 50% said they have often felt intimidated in sharing their ideas, opinions, or beliefs in class because they were different than those of their professors.
- 40% agreed that it is sometimes appropriate to shout down or disrupt a speaker.
- 36% said violence can be justified to prevent a person from using hate speech or making racially charged comments.
