USA Today mocked for asking 'is math racist?' in headline

USA Today appeared to question whether math was racist in a Twitter-provoking headline from Tuesday.

The article’s headline originally read "Is math racist? As many students of color struggle with the subject, schools are altering instruction — sometimes amid intense debate." The article focuses on "bolder recommendations to make math more inclusive" that "are blowing up the world of mathematics education."

After the original headline began to trend on Twitter, the title was later changed to "Is math education racist? Debate rages over changes to how US teaches the subject."

Critics called out USA Today for the substance of the article and for changing the headline.

"Math isn't racist... but the ‘educators’ who think it needs to be changed and made easier because some black kids struggle with it... ARE," Washington Times columnist Tim Young tweeted.

Portland State University professor Peter Boghossian wrote, "No, math is not racist. Major venues like @USATODAY even asking this question is a sign of cultural sickness. Racial disparities can be addressed (in part) by using the best evidence-based pedagogical practices that enable student learning. Please stop suggesting math is racist."

The USA Today piece followed criticism against California’s attempts to reform math education through a social justice lens. On Monday, 597 science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) professionals signed a letter criticizing the California Department of Education’s (CDE) proposed new mathematics framework.

"Far from being deliberately held back, all students should have the opportunity to be nurtured and challenged to fulfill their potential," the letter said. "This is not only for their own benefit but also for society and the nation’s economic competitiveness."

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