Mike Belcher, a social media commentator, published a series of posts on February 12, 2026, criticizing certain educational practices he described as ideological indoctrination. In his tweets, Belcher drew parallels between these practices and Marxist ideology as well as the Chinese Communist Cultural Revolution.
In one post on February 12, 2026, Belcher stated: “Here we have indoctrination using ‘restorative circles,’ which is radical Marxist ideology syncretizing Native-American spirituality. We also have the promotion of ‘vulnerability’ and weakness as a virtue, thereby lending to wound collecting, fragility, and making students much”.
Belcher concluded this series by writing: “… This is straight out of the Chinese Communist Cultural Revolution.” on February 12, 2026.
The use of “restorative circles” in schools refers to restorative justice practices that aim to resolve conflicts and build community through structured dialogue. These methods are increasingly adopted in various educational settings across North America. Some critics argue that such programs reflect broader cultural or ideological shifts within education systems.
The reference to students signing pledges aligns with reports about certain schools introducing agreements or codes of conduct designed to promote inclusive values and behaviors among students. While supporters view these measures as fostering respectful environments, detractors sometimes describe them as imposing particular worldviews onto children without parental consent.
Belcher’s comparison of modern educational initiatives with events from China’s Cultural Revolution reflects concerns among some commentators about perceived overreach in contemporary pedagogy. The Cultural Revolution (1966-1976) was marked by efforts from China’s government under Mao Zedong to reshape society through mass mobilization and ideological campaigns targeting traditional values and dissenting views.