Here’s some answers to questions about Critical Race Theory in Tri-City public schools

We know that many people have concerns and questions about Critical Race Theory (CRT) and what role it plays in our schools. To address these concerns we want to provide answers to some of the most commonly asked questions in our community.

Q: Is CRT taught in K-12 public schools?

A: No, CRT is not taught in K-12 public schools.

There is no curriculum or textbook for it. In our public schools, we seek to instill civic values in our students and inspire them. We strive to teach history in a way that allows all students to feel represented and imagine a better future.

Q: What is CRT and where is it taught?

A: CRT is nothing more than a way of thinking about America’s history and institutions through the lens of racism.

Developed by scholars after the race riots of the 1970s, CRT was initially introduced in law schools to look at how our legal system and criminal justice system have been unfair to people of color. It is mainly taught in graduate schools.

Q: Why is there such a stir in the media about banning CRT in public schools?

A: The opposition to CRT is being promoted to win elections, to create fear, and to distort its essence.

The intent is evident in the statement made by an architect of the movement, Christopher Rufo, when he wrote: “ We have successfully frozen their brand — ‘critical race theory’ — into the public conversation and are steadily driving up negative perceptions. We will eventually turn it toxic, as we put all of the various cultural insanities under that brand category.” Rufo’s cynical tactic is akin to the Red Scare perpetrated by McCarthy in the 1950’s.

Q: Should we teach the truth about race and racism in public schools?

A: Yes, we absolutely should, and it doesn’t require CRT to do so.

It will help all students become better citizens and better employees. We need to make sure that we teach our students the truth with love to prepare them for life after high school. The goal is to help students develop skills to be able to understand the world in its clearest form based on the evidence that society has provided. Students who join the workforce or aspire to attend graduate schools will be better prepared to understand the dynamic that race plays in our world.

Q: Won’t teaching about race make white kids feel guilty and uncomfortable?

A: The goal is not to blame anyone, but to affirm everyone.

To hear that white children will feel uncomfortable is problematic. Where did we get the idea that avoiding the discomfort of truth is healthy? What we want is to be honest, and affirm all students and create spaces where all students, including BIPOC/LGBTQ, can grasp the complexity of our history in age-appropriate ways.

Q: What happens if we avoid teaching about race?

A: Everyone loses.

As shown by what happened last spring at a Connell High School basketball game. Student spectators began shouting racial slurs at two Black students on the opposing team. The black students were dehumanized. The Connell students missed out because the school was fined and placed on probation for the entire school year, meaning they were unable to host any sporting competitions. Similar incidents have happened at Tri-Cities Schools. Having honest conversations about the past and present can help students recognize how demeaning racial slurs are and why praising and cheering their own team is a better alternative.