American Federation of Teachers' Statement (Modified)

Some of the language and phrasing in this document has been modified from the original.

Head Note: The American Federation of Teachers released a statement in support of John Scopes. As you read, think about their reasons for supporting him.

The American Federation of Teachers is very concerned about the effect of the Tennessee antievolution law.

Teaching has been threatened by unwise lawmakers who fear to trust the intelligence, the public spirit, and the devotion of teachers.

As teachers, we especially fear the effect of the present wave of intolerance in education on the task of providing schools with open-minded and informed teachers. Without intellectual freedom, and without open discovery and discussion, there could be no scholarship, no schools at all, and no education.

Source: Excerpt from resolution adopted by the American Federation of Teachers on July 18, 1925.