Reflections from Critical Race Theory (CRT) Summer School 2024

CRT Summer School & the Fight for Justice

We recently had the privilege of attending the Critical Race Theory (CRT) Summer School 2024, an experience that left us deeply inspired and reenergized in our commitment to justice work. The conversations, insights, and connections we made there have profoundly shaped our understanding of the challenges we face and the strategies we must employ to overcome them. Here, we share some of the powerful takeaways that will guide us as we fight for equity and challenge the systems perpetuating injustice.

Joy and Resilience in Justice Work

One of the most resonant lessons from the Summer School was the essential role of joy in our work. As we engage in the ongoing struggle for justice, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the enormity of the challenges we face. Burnout is real, and without nurturing our spirits, we risk losing the energy and passion necessary to sustain the fight. Joy is not just a byproduct of our work but a form of resistance and renewal. By embracing joy, we strengthen our resilience and ensure that we can continue to push forward, no matter how difficult the path may become.

The Power of Disruption

The story of Representative Justin Jones was a powerful reminder of the necessity of disruption in the fight against injustice. Despite being advised by his peers to remain silent during his first year as a lawmaker, Jones chose to honor his mandate to "get in the way" and make good trouble. His courage in resisting these pressures and disrupting systems of oppression is a testament to the impact that one individual can have when they refuse to accept the status quo. Jones’ example challenges us all to take bold action, even when it means standing alone and prioritizing justice over comfort.

Intersecting Interests for Progress

A recurring theme throughout the sessions was the idea that meaningful progress occurs when the interests of marginalized communities intersect with those in power. This intersection is not always easy to achieve, but it is where true change can happen. The challenge for us is to build bridges that connect these interests, fostering alliances that can drive forward our collective goals. Only by bringing these disparate groups together can we hope to create a more equitable and just society.

The Historical Context of Oppression

CRT Summer School also provided a sobering reminder of the historical context of racism and oppression in the United States. We discussed the legacy of figures like Ida B. Wells, who was run out of Tennessee for her courageous journalism on lynchings, and the ongoing veneration of deeply problematic historical figures like Andrew Jackson. The state of Tennessee, once the birthplace of the Ku Klux Klan, serves as a stark reminder of the deep roots of racial injustice in our country. This context is essential for understanding the challenges we face today and the urgency of our work.

The Suppression of Knowledge

One of the more chilling discussions revolved around the deliberate suppression of knowledge as a tool of control. We explored how narratives of history are manipulated to maintain power, from the banning of Toni Morrison’s works in American schools to the prohibition of teaching about events like the Tiananmen Square massacre in China or the Black Lives Matter movement in Florida. This suppression is not just about controlling the past but shaping the future by restricting what we learn and, therefore, what we can imagine. Our work must include defending the free exchange of ideas and ensuring that the truth is told, no matter how uncomfortable it may be.

The Role of Nationalism and Fascism

We also delved into the dangerous intersections of nationalism and fascism, examining how the "humiliation" of a nation—especially concerning issues of feminism and LGBTQ+ rights—can lead to authoritarianism. The parallels drawn between historical events, such as the teachings of Hitler and the current political climate, underscored the importance of vigilance and resistance. The idea that wars are won by teachers, a quote attributed to Vladimir Putin, serves as a stark reminder of the power of education—and why it is often the first target of authoritarian regimes.

Hope and Imagination as Tools of Resistance

Amid these heavy discussions, we were also reminded of the power of hope and imagination. As James Baldwin reflected on the murder of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., he noted, "Hope is invented every day." This sentiment was echoed in the encouragement to draw on the wisdom of figures like Adrienne Maree Brown and Janel George, who advocate for exercising our imagination to envision the world we want to build. This imagination, coupled with a deep belief in the possibility of change, will drive our work forward.

As we reflect on these lessons, we are more committed than ever to continuing the fight for justice. The CRT Summer School 2024 has deepened our understanding of the challenges ahead and equipped us with the tools and inspiration needed to meet them. We move forward with renewed purpose, ready to disrupt the systems perpetuating injustice and build a future where equity and justice are not just ideals but realities.