Black SC lawmakers criticize schools’ cooperation with right-wing PragerU

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – A group of South Carolina Black Legislators has responded to the South Carolina Department of Education’s decision to support the use of content from conservative digital media company PragerU in South Carolina classrooms.

PragerU, self-described as “the world’s leading conservative nonprofit organization dedicated to changing minds through the creative use of digital media,” announced a partnership between him and the department on Monday.

The company has been the subject of scandal and criticism in the past, posting videos with titles like “DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Must Die” and “Trans Kids: A Medical Scandal.” Officials stressed that use of the content is not required but will be permitted.

The partnership came about after the state Department of Education refused to grant credit for an advanced placement course in African American History.

The parliamentary group condemned the department’s decision to allow the content to be used, saying the agency had chosen to work with “an organization that presents a historically inaccurate narrative of American history.”

A statement issued by the party said:

“This partnership raises serious concerns about the educational content delivered to South Carolina students. The continued undermining of American history and academic courses has no place in the Palmetto State. Our classrooms should remain free from political bias, serving as spaces where young people can receive an unbiased and well-rounded education. We encourage local school board leaders to implement guidelines that ensure educational resources accurately reflect American history and prevent the spread of misleading information.”

The group plans to speak with the South Carolina Department of Education board and Superintendent Ellen Weaver to share concerns about the use of PragerU content in public school classrooms.