Why the Panic of Teaching Critical Race Theory in Schools? Can We Form Allyship Instead of Fearing Racial Others?

• In Event: Critical Identities and Discourses Within K–12 Education Spaces

Abstract

Critical race theory (CRT) is often taught at the college or graduate school levels; seldom do K-12 teachers address the issues of race/racism using the CRT tradition. However, conservative politicians have used CRT in media reports and legislation to undermine the hard work of K-12 teachers across the country, which further marginalizes diverse racial communities in the United States. Applying critical whiteness studies as a conceptual lens, we examine the recent panic and distortions of CRT created by White political agendas. Our goals are to identify the patterns and themes hidden in White superiority and dominance in pursuit of consequential justice and equity education research to improve the human conditions for ALL, particularly the silenced and marginalized.

Authors

• Keonghee Tao Han, University of Wyoming
  Presenting Author

• Clynn J Stewarts, University of Wyoming
  Presenting Author

• Kristy Palmer, University of Wyoming
  Presenting Author

• Michelle Mason, Whitman College
  Presenting Author

• Judson Crandall Laughter, University of Tennessee
  Presenting Author