Some Nebraska athletes oppose critical race theory proposal

Nebraska athletes who are part of a newly formed nonprofit are among those who signed a petition Monday opposing a proposed University of Nebraska Board of Regents resolution objecting to “any imposition of critical race theory” in academic curriculum.

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska athletes who are part of a newly formed nonprofit are among those who signed a petition Monday opposing a proposed University of Nebraska Board of Regents resolution objecting to “any imposition of critical race theory” in academic curriculum.

The Omaha World-Herald reports that nonprofit United College Athlete Advocates’ petition had gathered more than 1,300 signatures by Monday morning.

Former Nebraska golfer Daniel Pearson is a cofounder of United College Athlete Advocates, and Husker track and field athlete Sadio Fenner, a UCAA representative at Nebraska, helped lead the charge on the petition.

Critical race theory is a way of thinking about America’s history through the lens of racism.

Top NU leaders also released a joint statement expresing serious concern over Nebraska Regent Jim Pillen’s proposal to remove the theory from NU.

“The free and open pursuit of ideas is a cherished principle in higher education, and its preservation is vital for any great university,” administrators said. “We support and defend the liberties our teachers and learners have to freely discuss ideas in and outside of the classroom.”

The statement came from leaders such as University President Ted Carter, UNL Chancellor Ronnie Green, UNO Chancellor Joanne Li, UNMC Chancellor Jeff Gold and UNK Chancellor Doug Kristensen.

You can find a link to the UCAA petition here.