On Critical Race Theory: Why It Matters & Why You Should Care

Amid the White backlash against a misconceived scholarly framework, Victor Ray authors the persuasive On Critical Race Theory to clarify misconceptions and create a path for constructive dialogue about race. The book focuses on empirical research and evidence from social sciences to highlight the fundamental tenets of critical race theory (CRT). The book’s interdisciplinary approach mirrors the reality of the effects of race as a social construct within American society. While race has no biological basis, beliefs about race and racism are pervasive, with real damaging consequences for Black Americans and other racialized groups.

On Critical Race Theory is an important read for anyone seeking to understand the elemental roots of the moral panic about an academic theory that has been weaponized to promote White racial animosity. I took to heart Ray’s straightforward and logical presentation of the crucial tenets of CRT. At Vassar University, Ray leads White working-class students in exploring the dynamics of racial inequality in the US. He calls out the normativity and invisibility of Whiteness as a political identity. Because he is well aware of the sentiments and perceptions about racial dynamics, he can effectively confront the fallacy of claims about anti-White discrimination and present arguments about the importance of racial consciousness in a rational manner.