"The Attack on Critical Race Theory Is an Attack on Ethnic Studies": Ethnic Studies Curricula and the Critical Race Theory Backlash

Session Type: Invited Speaker Session

Abstract

This presidential session examines the consequences of legislation that bans Critical Race Theory (CRT), one of the many theoretical lenses used in Ethnic Studies and culturally relevant teaching, at state and national levels. Anti-CRT legislation has passed or is threatened to pass in at least ten states. Right-wing ideologues and organizers are actively working to instill fear of CRT in families of all ethnic backgrounds across the country. This panel reframes the struggle as an attack on the growing and successful Ethnic Studies Movement clarifying the relationship and interplay with CRT. Legal avenues for litigation based on First and Equal Protection Fourteenth Amendment Constitutional Rights, legal and historical frames and Civil Rights arguments are addressed.

Sub Unit

• AERA Presidential Session

Chair

• E. Diane Torres-Velasquez, University of New Mexico

Moderator

• E. Diane Torres-Velasquez, University of New Mexico

Panelists

• Theresa Montano, California State University - Northridge

• Angela Valenzuela, The University of Texas at Austin

• David G. Hinojosa, Intercultural Development Research Association

• Richard Martinez, Civil Rights Attorney