Fact-Check: "Largest Teachers Union Removes Jews From The History of the Holocaust"
What We Know
The claim that the National Education Association (NEA), the largest teachers' union in the United States, has removed Jews from the history of the Holocaust is based on a misinterpretation of recent events surrounding the union's relationship with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). On July 5, 2025, NEA delegates voted to forward a proposal to the NEA Executive Committee recommending that the union not use, endorse, or publicize materials from the ADL, which has historically provided educational resources about antisemitism and the Holocaust in schools (CNN). However, this proposal has not been officially adopted and remains under review (Forward).
The NEA has publicly stated its commitment to combating all forms of hate and discrimination, including antisemitism, and has emphasized that the proposal does not reflect an endorsement of the ADL's full body of work (CNN). The ADL has criticized the NEA's actions as "profoundly disturbing," but the NEA maintains that it is committed to ensuring safe educational environments for all students (CNN).
Analysis
The claim that the NEA has "removed Jews from the history of the Holocaust" appears to stem from a combination of the union's controversial proposal regarding the ADL and misinterpretations of its educational guidelines. Sources that support this claim, such as articles from TFPP Wire and WJBC, suggest that the NEA's recent actions reflect a broader trend of omitting Jewish perspectives from Holocaust education. However, these sources lack robust evidence and context, relying heavily on sensational language and interpretations that may not accurately reflect the NEA's intentions or actions.
On the other hand, reputable sources like CNN and Forward provide a more nuanced view, indicating that the NEA has not officially adopted any policy that would erase Jewish history from educational curricula. The NEA's rejection of the proposal to sever ties with the ADL suggests that there is still a commitment to addressing antisemitism and educating about the Holocaust, albeit through potentially different means.
The reliability of sources claiming the NEA has removed Jews from Holocaust history is questionable, as they often lack direct quotes from NEA officials or concrete evidence of policy changes. In contrast, mainstream news outlets provide clearer context and are less likely to sensationalize the issue.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The claim that the NEA has removed Jews from the history of the Holocaust is misleading. While the NEA has engaged in controversial discussions regarding its relationship with the ADL, there is no evidence to support the assertion that it has officially adopted policies that erase Jewish history from educational curricula. The NEA continues to affirm its commitment to combating antisemitism and promoting inclusive education. Therefore, the assertion is not substantiated by credible evidence.
Sources
- NEA: Largest teachers' union in the US endorses proposal ...
- Nation's largest teachers union rejects move to cut ties with ...
- Largest Teachers Union Removes Jews From The History of the ...
- Nation's Largest Teacher's Union Doubles Down on ...
- Largest Teachers Union Just Erased Jews Then Hid the Handbook ...
- NEA Wants to Erase Jews From Holocaust History
- Teachers' Union Backs Away From Anti-Defamation ...
- Teachers' union NEA members endorse cutting ties with ADL