Conservatives Misunderstand Critical Race Theory Yet Are Outraged Over It

American conservatives have found a new source of anxiety: critical race theory. Right-wing individuals are increasingly anxious that educators, like myself, may introduce this concept into our classrooms. However, their grasp of what critical race theory actually entails seems quite tenuous. Much like their misguided beliefs about the cancellation of the Muppets or Mr. Potato Head’s supposed gender ban, they are convinced that critical race theory is a looming threat.

What is Critical Race Theory?

Essentially, it is the understanding that racism is embedded within our institutions; it’s not merely a matter of individual prejudice. Addressing racism requires more than simply abolishing slavery or dismantling Jim Crow; it involves acknowledging the unconscious biases that exist in society.

In many classrooms, discussions about these topics arise naturally, regardless of the subject—be it history, English, or any other. Yet in various communities across the nation, parents are expressing outrage. A recent Twitter thread from user @NewName reveals the heated exchanges that erupted during a school board meeting in Fairfax County, Virginia. It’s important to note that the district’s superintendent has clarified that critical race theory is not part of their curriculum; rather, they are simply acknowledging the role of racism in society. For some parents, this acknowledgment appears to carry a “political agenda.”

The Conflict Over Free Speech

While conservatives often lament “cancel culture,” portraying themselves as champions of free speech, their actions at such meetings suggest otherwise. They seem more interested in silencing dissent than engaging in meaningful dialogue. This conflict stems from the belief that a candid evaluation of America’s racial history will lead to a sense of “hatred” toward the country. Consequently, they argue for ignoring or minimizing the impact of racism.

This notion is absurd. We can honor the United States’ ideals of freedom and equality while also recognizing that we still have significant work to do. How can we advance if we refuse to confront the extent of the issue?

Fear of Being Labeled Racist

A significant part of this resistance is driven by white individuals’ fears of being labeled as racist. They worry about their children being perceived as racist too, and that acknowledging racism could implicate them, their communities, and their heritage. But critical race theory doesn’t accuse individuals of being bigots. It emphasizes that good intentions are just the beginning; we all must actively confront racial inequalities.

As educators, we empower students to enact social change. This is not about branding them as inherently racist; it’s about encouraging them to be proactive against racism. A common reaction from those reluctant to discuss race is the assertion that they “don’t see color.” This misguided approach suggests that by disregarding race, they can eliminate discrimination.

The Importance of Understanding Systemic Racism

However, this is why understanding systemic racism is crucial. Despite America’s diversity, our communities remain largely segregated along racial lines. This ongoing division affects wealth distribution, educational access, income potential, and interactions with law enforcement. These realities exist regardless of whether we choose to acknowledge them.

While no one should feel “bullied or retaliated against,” the truth remains: systemic racism is a tangible issue. It’s not an extreme leftist viewpoint; it’s a fact of life that surrounds us. Conservative educators are entitled to their perspectives, but if they insist that racism was eradicated in 1968 and that everything is now perfect, they simply aren’t presenting the truth.

Engaging with Literature

In my own teaching, when discussing works like The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison, we delve into how racism interacts with societal views on beauty. We examine studies, such as the Clark “doll tests,” which reveal children’s preferences for white dolls over Black ones due to ingrained societal biases. How can we engage with these topics without addressing the systemic elements of racism?

In another example, when exploring Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, we can’t ignore the influence of colonial attitudes that persist today. Analyzing literary texts necessitates a discussion about the lasting impact of imperialism. My students can see how current cultural dynamics reflect white supremacist attitudes, such as the objectification of Black bodies and the appropriation of Black culture.

During the time I was teaching To Kill a Mockingbird, the protests following George Floyd’s murder were unfolding. My students naturally drew parallels between Mr. Floyd and Tom Robinson. I had no intention of suggesting that systemic racism had vanished; they wouldn’t have believed that narrative.

When we look at how Harper Lee centered the Finch family in her narrative, we might ponder how the story would differ if it had been penned by a Black author sharing the Robinson family’s perspective. Discussing these issues isn’t pushing a far-left agenda; it’s a necessary part of analyzing literature holistically.

The Need for Honest Discussions

To ignore these discussions in the classroom would be irresponsible. It would create a disconnect between the subjects we study and the realities of the world around us. For education to be genuine, relatable, and meaningful, it must recognize our nation’s complex history with racism.

Conservative groups may continue their outcry, much like their concerns over Mr. Potato Head, but we are currently experiencing a significant reckoning regarding race, and it cannot be excluded from educational discourse.

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Summary

The uproar among conservatives regarding critical race theory stems largely from a misunderstanding of its principles, which focus on systemic racism rather than individual prejudice. While some fear that acknowledging racism will lead to hatred of the country, the reality is that recognizing these issues is crucial for progress. Education must engage with the complexities of race and history to empower students as agents of social change.