A campanha contra a teoria crítica da raça nos Estados Unidos (2020-2023)

Abstract

The research aims to analyze the debate on Critical Race Theory in the United States and the conservative reaction, focusing on the anti-CRT campaign in schools and pending and approved federal and state legislations related to anti-racist education, among 2020 and 2022. To this end, the research answers what critical race theory is from the perspective of its theorists, contextualizes the advance of the extreme right and the CRT as its symbolic enemy representing resistance to anti-racist education, and analyzes the related changes to the subject at the federal and state legislative level. It is argued that the attacks on the CRT and the efforts surrounding race debate and anti-TCR legislation are part of an ideological effort to delegitimize the American nation's historical perspectives of race and racism, prevent marginalized groups from participating in civic life, and maintain the racial status quo and political power. This ideological effort is part of a broader and transnational movement articulated by conservative groups that use institutional mechanisms to block the advancement of progressive agendas, highlighting the strong polarization and division of North American society in the actions involved in combating racism. From the lens of Critical Race Theory, we analyzed and mapped anti-CRT legislation or legislation against education and the race debate. The research is based on federal and state legislation, such as Federal Executive Orders decreed by presidents and state Executive Orders decreed by governors, and state bills and laws. Through mapping and analysis, it is possible to identify the wave of legislation against the CRT, more specifically against the debate on race, which is being built as a movement against anti-racist education in schools, higher education institutions and public and private institutions.