What is critical race theory and why is it controversial?

Critical race theory has become a topic of fierce political debate in the US in recent months. The conflict has most prominently played out in public school districts, as parents, teachers and school administrators grapple with how to teach race, discrimination and inequality in the classroom.

What is ‘CRT’ in education?

Parents have swarmed school board meetings to rail against “CRT.” Teachers we spoke to say they’ve hardly heard of it. Parents in school districts across the country are protesting critical race theory (CRT). Teachers say that’s not what they’re teaching.

Is Rufo’s Rage Against critical race theory working?

Thanks in no small part to wall-to-wall Fox News coverage, Rufo’s rage against critical race theory has been an incredibly effective campaign so far. School may be out for the summer, but school board meetings are still in session and packed full of parents speaking out against CRT.

Why is critical theory critical?

Their theory was critical because it interrogated and challenged prevailing assumptions. They did so creatively, sometimes through telling personal stories that helped illuminate social realities.

Can the NEA defend the teaching of critical race theory?

At its yearly annual meeting, conducted virtually over the past few days, the NEA adopted New Business Item 39, which essentially calls for the organization to defend the teaching of critical race theory.*

Are new curriculum restrictions threatening educational efforts to address racism?

Some curriculums now include more racialized historical events, such as the Tulsa race riot and the Rodney King case and the subsequent Los Angeles riots, that highlight the plight of Black and brown Americans in the United States. But those educators say their efforts are in danger due to these potential new restrictions on education.

Should CRT be taught in K-12 schools?

That said, the National Education Association (NEA) appears to have accepted the conservative framing of CRT: namely, that it’s not merely confined to academia but is in fact also being taught in K-12 schools. And the NEA thinks this is a good thing that should be defended.