How critical race theory is fueling political activism in Arizona school board meetings

Critical race theory has become a rallying cry for both Republican
politicians and conservative parents alike.  The
COVID-19 pandemic forced parents to become more aware of
their children’s curriculum as they attended school virtually.
While school officials maintain educators are not teaching students
that racism is systemic, some parents — and Arizona
lawmakers — want to make sure it isn't allowed to
happen.  As in-person school board meetings returned, parents
packed local school board meetings denouncing critical race
theory during public comment. Conservative media and Republican
politicians have taken cue from former President Donald Trump as he
continues to criticize the study.  But what is critical race
theory? When did it begin? In this week's episode of The
Gaggle: An Arizona politics podcast, hosts Yvonne Wingett
Sanchez and Ronald J. Hansen break down the rhetoric
surrounding critical race theory.  Joining the show are Jamal
K. Donnor, an associate professor at William and Mary School of
Education, and Arizona Republic city reporters Joshua Bowling and
Renata Cló.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit
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