A small group of protesters stood outside in the rain Friday to protest the Department of Education daring to teach American history.
A national effort to celebrate American history and civics education rolled into Brookfield Central High School on Friday, but a small band of liberal protesters gathered outside in the rain to decry the event for no apparent reason beyond its ties to conservative organizations.
The U.S. Department of Education’s “History Rocks!” tour, part of the America 250 commemoration of the nation’s 250th birthday, features presentations on the founding principles that built the country and Wisconsin’s pivotal role in shaping the American frontier. Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Murray Bessette delivered the message inside the school to students, highlighting excellence in civics and a shared national heritage.
The tour partners with dozens of groups, including Turning Point USA, Moms for Liberty and Catholic Vote — organizations long dedicated to promoting patriotism, limited government and traditional values. Organizers say the program simply aims to inspire young people with the timeless truths of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution.
Yet a handful of activists stood along the roadway with umbrellas and handmade signs, some invoking Nazi imagery with “Next Come the Brown Shirts,” others declaring the event “political” or complaining about short notice. A few students held signs lamenting “indoctrination” and “whitewashing history,” echoing left-wing talking points that dismiss any celebration of America’s founding as divisive.
School officials selected Brookfield Central as Wisconsin’s lone stop after a former local police officer now handling tour security extended the invitation. Families received notice Thursday, prompting complaints from a vocal minority who claimed it was sprung on them and somehow partisan — even though the content focused on core American history, not party politics.
Inside, students participated in a lively history game following a brief, non-political introduction, according to observers. No disruptions were reported.
State Rep. Robyn Vining (D-Wauwatosa), skipped the event, calling it partisan. Most local leaders welcomed the chance to remind students why America remains exceptional.
