Critical Race Theory, Racialization, and Schools (w/ Ben Blaisdell and Kevin Currie-Knight)

In this episode, Ben Blaisdell (East Carolina University, Kevin's department-mate) talks about critical race theory (CRT) and its applicability to k-12 education. Ben's research and work in schools relies heavily on critical race frameworks, and at a time where people are so polarized about CRT, Ben explains what it is, what it's not, what critics get wrong about it, and how it can answer current criticisms leveled against it.

3:12 - What is critical race theory and what is its significance for a field like k-12 education?
14:12 - Concrete ways racialization plays out in schools
26:26 - But aren't we just lowering expectations for black and brown students? Aren't we just devolving into racial stereotype?
31:06 - Are the people critics of CRT aim at (Kendi, DiAngelo) working within a CRT framework? (Teaser: not really.)
45:03 - If racism is unavoidable, how can teachers subvert it? If biases are unconscious, how can we become aware of ours?
54:30 - What are critics (especially legislators and pundits) getting wrong about CRT?
1:03:55 - Can CRT and antiracism veer into a religious way of thinking?