Teachers For A Democratic Culture

Teachers for a Democratic Culture originated in 1991 as a response to the negative portrayal by the media of educational innovations, such as multiculturalism, and social programs, such as open admissions. It was our view then; as it is now, that these reforms have greatly enriched education rather than corrupted it. Further, we believe the unfounded attacks on these reforms have not only weakened the public’s faith in educational institutions, but also eroded the potential for a truly democratic politics.

In response, TDC generated public statements, newsletters, and academic conferences to disseminate the values of a democratically informed education. It has become clear, however, that our original conception was too limited. We imagined “teachers” as only those individuals with degrees or with jobs in public/private institutions. We imagined it was enough to argue the point without providing the human services necessary to support individuals working for an expansive and democratic culture in their own communities. Finally, we did not understand the power of having individual express their own experiences through writing could have to others facing the same struggles. We did not, ironically, understand the power of generating the written word and sharing it throughout local and distant communities.

We have now realized a profound truth: Only when the democratic possibilities inherent in education are felt in the daily lives of citizens will public and community-based educational institutions regain the trust of the communities and regions they serve. Only by engaging in community work to broaden educational and cultural opportunities will a democratic culture become manifest in our neighborhoods and in our nation.

As it enters the second phase of its existence, then, TDC will turn its activities toward sponsoring and supporting the grass roots work necessary for a thriving democratic culture. We will continue to speak out against the malicious attacks on educational institutions. We will continue to work for universities that are socially responsible and committed to educating every student. We will continue to work for progressive and open curricula.

Beginning today, however, TDC also intends to begin building a network of local teacher/community activist alliances that will support the development of community-based programs for neighborhoods. We will also sponsor public forums to support alliances across communities dedicated to making every member in that community a “teacher” for others. Finally, we will initiate publications designed to demonstrate to the public the social and political value of every voice.

We believe such local engagement is the next step in producing communities based on a democratic and inclusive culture.