CRT Research Paper dn.edited(1)

1 CRT Outcomes in Education, Health, and Society Harold L. Baum, Jr. Scientific Thinking, Farmingdale State University 23FA STS330: Scientific Thinking Dr. Amanda Kavner

2 Abstract This multidisciplinary study delves into Critical Race Theory (CRT), exploring its many facets, its beneficial effects, and the common political misunderstandings surrounding it. This study aims to shed light on CRT, highlight its crucial role in promoting social fairness, and stress the need to debunk prevalent misconceptions by combining insights from education and political science. By bringing together experts from the two fields, we can gain a more complete picture of the consequences of CRT and go beyond simplistic answers. There have been varying reactions and divisions over CRT in politics, which has led to its underrepresentation in legislative settings. Examining concrete examples of legislative misunderstanding, this part provides a critical analysis of the political rhetoric around CRT. At the same time, CRT's potential uses in education are becoming more apparent. The article focuses on the positive effects on education by debunking long-held myths in the field. This study seeks to highlight the importance of cross-disciplinary understanding by investigating CRT via educational and political lenses, with the goal of uncovering overlapping and divergent aspects. Crucially, the article suggests ways to reduce the political and academic misinterpretation of CRT. In order to promote a more educated and inclusive discourse, it is recommended that there be open dialogues, educational programs, and avenues of contact. This research article aims to reconcile the frequent political misrepresentations of CRT with its true intentions and exposes its positive contributions. It contributes to a complex and constructive interpretation of this influential theory.

4 Navigating Critical Race Theory: Unveiling Nuances, Dispelling Misconceptions Introduction Critique theory (CRT) is vital in trying to understand the interaction between racial identity, law, and sociolegal norms. CRT was borne out of legal studies before becoming an elaborate theoretical construct that can be used in numerous disciplines. The following paragraph provides a brief historical background for the case. Initially, it traces the roots of CRT within legal discourse. It then proceeds to discuss its application across other domains. It lays the way for a wide investigation going above and beyond its legal basis when we trace it back to the origin. The researching of CRT is an interdisciplinary venture that is vital. Being complicated by nature, CRT requires detailed research exceeding the scope of a given discipline. Hence, it is critical that an understanding of CRT should not be based solely on educational research but combined with political science findings as well. This may lead to a better understanding of the multiple effects and repercussions of CRT on policy and education settings. The central area of research for this investigation was to uncover the complexities of CRT as it related to typical misconceptions in politics. It is therefore essential for people to know what CRT truly means as it has turned into a controversial topic of discussion. This article seeks to look at various aspects of CRT, taking into account its strengths as well as common misunderstanding politically. We hope it shall give a clear picture of the actual aims behind CRT, which seem to be shrouded in political vagueness. This study is an academic effort designed to generate more intelligent discussion on CRT among the general public. Political Discourse Surrounding CRT Overview of CRT's Reception in Political Discourse The reception of Critical Race Theory (CRT) reflects the larger ideological divisions in society and has made it a prominent topic in modern political discourse. A fundamental principle of critical race theory (CRT) is giving a platform to people of color while discussing and solving problems related to equity and equality (Su, 2017). But political polarization has molded the conversation around CRT, which has resulted in passionate support for it and fierce criticism of it. Researchers in critical race theory (CRT) have sparked political discussions over the theory's function in policymaking by criticizing prevailing liberal discourses of colorblindness and neutrality (Su, 2017). While drawing attention to the difficulties in fully adopting CRT, Cabrera's (2019) paper offers a critical theory of racism, which is an additional contribution. To lay the groundwork for an in-depth examination of political objections and particular cases of legislative misunderstanding, this section investigates the diverse political receptions of CRT. Political Polarization and CRT The present-day hostile atmosphere is integrally connected with how CRT is perceived within a political debate.B As Su(2017) suggests, CRT should move away from the position of disregarding and instead start dealing with racial oppression to disrupt mainstream liberal discourse. However, when discussing politics, there are distinct intellectual distinctions about the reception of CRT. Even while a scholar like Cabrera has highlighted the challenges of applying CRT, he has still noted that is can be a powerful counter-narrative.

5 CRT has sharply divided opinion among people since some maintain that it gives the "mute" an opportunity to state their case while correcting the past sins. Others disagree with CRT quite often, basing their positions on some misconceptions. This partisan division is evident in the legislative discussions, where supporters of CRT hail its potential to affect legislation from an equitable point of view while opposers contend that its objectives are misguided. In particular, politicians who are against CRT characterize it as a foe of conventional virtue or a separator. However, by this argument, according to Su's (2017), such arguments don't look into the complexity in the CRT plan on revealing and eradicating racial discrimination. In order to understand how ideological differences affect the discourse on public policy, we should not go beyond politics on CRT that duplicates wider social tension. In addition, understanding the roots of political polarization will be improved by viewing CRT via an educational-political scientific perspective. Political actors take different approaches towards CRT depending on what they know is contained within educational policy and hence has the potential to influence societal narratives. Hence, political controversy relating to CRT emanates from varied perspectives concerning the role of education for shaping collective remembrance and consciousness that subsequently are derived from arguments over racial justice. Analyzing Political Criticisms Political criticisms directed at CRT have largely arisen from misconceptions about its key aims and basic foundations. According to its detractors, the CRT promotes hostility and undermines national cohesion. This shows a lack of understanding by such claims that the CRT has an intricate perspective on racism and race. The last part in this chapter looks at the specific political criticisms on CRT and evaluate them based on their worth as educational scholars. However, a popular criticism of CRT is that it is essentially radical with the sole aim of demolishing established social structures. However, CRT researchers like Cabrera (2019), point out that to bring meaningful change, one must first understand the complexities of racism instead of calling for a violent revolution. If critics of CRT want to understand its aim, which is to study and reform existing systems rather than destruct their whole, they need to investigate the genesis of CRT in law. Another stance of opponent is that instead of supporting colorless society CRT supports conflicting society by pinpointing inequalities based on race. However, these critiques miss the crux of CRT as advanced by the above scholars, whereby rejecting racism at structural and historically levels preserves the system inequalities. It is important to appreciate this position in order to dispel the myth that, by its very nature, CRT promotes separation. In addition, critics suggest that CRT limits academic freedom as well as free speech. uitgen Some people assert that concerns regarding indoctrination are what lead to some legislative attempts to restrict the application of CRT in classrooms. However, Cabreras’s (2019) proposal for the inclusion of a critical theoretical perspective on racism within CRT emphasizes the need for careful consideration and discussion. Case Studies: Instances of CRT Misunderstanding in Legislation. Instances of Critical Race Theory (CRT) misunderstanding have manifested in legislative initiatives, reflecting the political polarization surrounding its discourse. Notably, attempts to

7 Positive Impacts of CRT in Education There have been measurable merits of CRT in education. Su (2017) considers the use of critical race theory in the Participatory Budgeting Process, including what it takes for CRT to contribute towards developing inclusive policies within NYS. Such an approach privileges the voices of marginalised populations, which resonate with educational institutions intent on fostering inclusion. CRT in the education setting serves as a transformational instrument for exploring in depth race issues and creating space where multiple views are embraced. This perspective is further extended with reference to Cabrera (2018) who offers a critical theory of racism based on hegemonic Whiteness as an additional dimension of CRT. Expansion of CRT increases the possible benefits of this approach towards racial issues in education and helps to address various racial dimensions existing in educational setting. Positive effects include countering conventional powers and introducing relevant contents for children’s realities. Common Misconceptions in Educational Institutions There have been many positive aspects of critical race theory but there are also a few misconceptions regarding this idea in classroom instruction. Su’s (2017) study demonstrates how relevant it is for under-researched population to have their voices heard, e.g., CRT in NYC’s Participatory budgeting. Nevertheless, there are many who fail to recognize CRT for what it truly is: Instead of being simply divisive or confronting, it would be more inclusive and tackle some of the fundamental issues that are prevalent within education. In fact, Cabrera's (2018) critique of CRT implementation related to higher education studies exposes a potential misconception regarding the theory's flexibility. Critical race theory (CRT) was originally meant to serve as a source of safety for African American professors but in order to maintain its status as an overarching theoretical framework for education studies, it should likely be amended. If not used carefully, these could be construed as misunderstandings about how CRTs aim to counter racial inequality. In order to quash these misgivings on CRT, schools need to conduct intensive yet contextual dialogues. This is so true; it would help create a more realistic understanding of CRT's relevance in schooling by noting its role as a creator of friendly learning climate, challenging biased beliefs, and promoting critical thinking. It would help disprove false notions and create better comprehension. Therefore, it is imperative for educational leaders and teachers to constantly undergo professional development which allows one to understand these concepts deeply in order to implement CRT effectively in different settings. Strategies for Effectively Teaching CRT in Schools Students can only understand race, equity, and justice when critical race theory education is emphasized. Su (2017) notes that acknowledging underserved views is vital for challenging and smashing racial inequality. This can also be done in the classroom with inclusive practices which regard students’ differences in race, culture, religion, gender, or social status. One of them is making sure that class discussions incorporate a variety of students views and experiences. Teachers should employ text cases and historical examples with different races and cultures so that students will be able to understand how race relations work. This finding was consistent with that of Cabrera (2018), who argued about the benefits attributed to CRT with regard to education and how it mitigates racial discrimination and promotes inclusivity.

8 Another key strategy is that of professional development for educators. Therefore, an effective measure would be to conduct training sessions and workshops that focus on describing what exactly happens when an entity introduces concepts such as CRT, the historic circumstances that give birth to those concepts and how they translate into educational environments. This conforms to the suggestion that there should be focus placed upon provider bias as well as institutional racisms in the health care system (Cunningham et al. 2021). The Interplay of Political and Educational Perspectives Comparative Analysis of Political and Educational Approaches to CRT The similarities and disparity in terms of CRT’s political and pedagogic manifestations. According to Su (2017), CRT is often used for polarizing purposes in political conversations as well as sometimes being criticized. Some of this criticism may include instances of misconstruction such as legislative debates (DeSante & Candis, 2020). On the contrary, CRT is recognized for its positive impacts in the educational settings where it addresses racial biasness and encourages diversity in the classroom. CRT is viewed as a controversial issue in political perspectives that foster confusions and conflicts among people. However, pedagogical approaches highlight the effectiveness of CRT in assisting students to think critically and understand race issues. The contradiction illustrates the importance of other area's wisdom in bridging the chasm between political criticism and educational benefits. It is worth noting that many in the political arena view CRT as another avenue of ideological war, while their counterparts in academia see it as a means of pursuing social justice. By engaging in comparison, we will locate misinterpretations and seek solutions on how to eradicate them. It is important to realize that different perspectives are attributed to CRT from educational and political circles in order to understand its social purpose fully. Experts of various fields must come together in order to comprehend CRT and hold meaningful dialogues that transcend ideological divisions. Identifying Overlapping and Divergent Points Looking at how CRT is practiced within an education context vs. a political setting can help us understand why it has been received differently. The critics see CRT as a very controversial theory. It is sometimes oversimplified while being debated in the public discourse (Su, 2017). On the other hand, CRT has been noted to aid in developing critical thinking skills on race within students. Also, establish alternative narratives about themselves (Solorzano & Yosso, 2001). The point of convergence here lies in realizing that CRT had shaped opinions about race in society. Both in the politics and academics it is well- recognized that the importance understanding and solving racial dynamics. In relation to what CRT aims at, however, there are controversies.subsection2subsection Despite the fact that CRT excellently addresses the issue of structural race inequalities, they are viewed as an insult by their opponents. Critical race theory can be used as a social justification tool within the class room setting towards overcoming stereotyping. The reasons for that are different opinions on the causes and effects of CRT, which is illustrated in the contradictions described above.

10 First of all, is acknowledging that CRT is commonly subjected to manipulation on the path toward a cure is one of these steps. This can be resolved provided there are open channels for the talk among researchers, politicians and the common people. To that end, promoting thoughtful deliberations should help avoid such polarization of the CRT controversy (Cabrera, 2018).eltemperatureneclare que la réflexion de ce genre pourrait éviter d’en polariser ainsi le débat concernant la A better way to communicate the subtleties of CRT is to encourage lawmakers and teachers to speak about it. Effective communication requires integrating CRT instructional programs. According to Fernander (2022) and Solorzano and Yosso (2001), educational institutions should integrate the theory of critical race thinking in their course works. This approach gives the students’ knowledge of the background and social context that they use as a starting point for participating in national arguments that pertain to CRT. Promoting Educational Initiatives on CRT To debunk these CRT myths, education should be supported. Solorzano and Yosso (2001), Fernander (2022), Su (2017) and Cabrera (2018) all emphasized on an interdisciplinary approach. Therefore, it is important that students be given a good understanding of CRT's nature and history at the schools. Hence there should be introduction of CRT issues into the curriculum. Afterwards, there will also be more educated discussions on CRT by their children who are likely to be equipped with critical thinking abilities. Finally, another proactive option would be to include CRT into teacher professional development programs of universities and other education institutions. This is exactly what Cabrera (2018) says about higher education study should go deeper on CRT understanding. Educators need to be prepared to discuss CRT so as to create a conducive learning environment for dialogues leading to open-mindedness and rationality. Fostering Open Dialogues Across Political Spectrum) For a better understanding of CRT, there should be an open debate among individuals with diverse political views. Su (2017) illustrates the importance of Participatory Budgeting in New York City in an article titled “Participatory Budgeting in New York City”. An appraisal of racialized mass incarceration and its implications on race and inequality requires in-depth discussions. This method reflects CRT’s multidisciplinary character as it takes into consideration the social, political, and educational dimensions of CRT. Anyone should freely discuss CRT in public without regard to which side they belong to politically. Therefore, public forums, online platforms and town hall meetings provide an avenue for airing one's views and listening to the thoughts of others on various issues. Such debates help to dispel myths surrounding CRT and bring clarity between the two fields (Su, 2017; Fornili, 2018). Moreover, open talks should be involved with community elders, legislators, and intellectuals so as to have a collective knowledge in diverse academic subjects. Through a collaboration of political analysis and pedagogical concerns, this group effort symbolizes an interdisciplinary approach that is characteristic of STS students.

11 Conclusion In conclusion, this study delves into the intricate domain of CRT and reveals it beneficial influences in the domains of political affairs, education and health. Comparison of educational and political views showed that CRT had interdisciplinary background. The complexity of implementation of CRT is evidenced by convergent and divergent aspects in distinct perspectives. Such a report demands public conversations without being affected by the parties' sides and highlights on intelligent debates. Open and collaborative discussions can aid understanding of CRT, dispelling misconceptions and fostering deeper insight. Therefore, it is imperative to understand CRT as a strong tool against structural racism and a move towards more inclusive and conversational socially just future. References Bridges, K. M., Keel, T., & Obasogie, O. K. (2017). Introduction: Critical Race Theory and the Health Sciences. American Journal of Law and Medicine, 43 (2-3), 179-182. https://doi.org/10.1177/0098858817723657 . Cabrera, N. L. (2018). Where is the racial theory in critical race theory? A constructive criticism of the crits. Review of Higher Education, 42 (1), 209-233. https://doi.org/10.1353/rhe.2018.0038 . Cunningham, A., Crittendon, D., Konys, C., Mills, G., Casola, A., Kelly, S., & Arenson, C. (2021). Critical Race Theory as a Lens for Examining Primary Care Provider Responses to Persistently-Elevated HbA1c. Journal of the National Medical Association, 113 (3), 297–300. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnma.2020.11.012 . DeSante, C. D., & Candis, W. S. (2020). Fear, Institutionalized Racism, and Empathy: The Underlying Dimensions of Whites’ Racial Attitudes. PS: Political Science & Politics, 53 (4), 639-645. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1049096520000414 . Fernander, A. (2022). What does critical race theory have to do with academic medicine? Journal of the National Medical Association, 114 (3), 274–277. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnma.2022.01.013 . Ford, C. L., & Airhihenbuwa, C. O. (2010). The public health critical race methodology: Praxis for antiracism research. Social Science & Medicine (1982), 71 (8), 1390–1398. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2010.07.030 . Fornili, K. S. (2018). Racialized Mass Incarceration and the War on Drugs: A Critical Race Theory Appraisal. Journal of Addictions Nursing, 29 (1), 65–72. https://doi.org/10.1097/JAN.0000000000000215 . Gillborn, D. (2015). "Intersectionality, Critical Race Theory, and the Primacy of Racism: Race, Class, Gender, and Disability in Education." Qualitative Inquiry, 21 (3), 277–87. https://doi.org/10.1177/1077800414557827 . Reece, R. L. (2019). Color Crit: Critical Race Theory and the History and Future of Colorism in the United States. Journal of Black Studies , 50 (1), 3–25.