Leah Rogne, Ph.D. “Weaponizing Critical Race theory: How to Mobilize Fear and Whitewash U.S. History”

Leah Rogne, Minnesota State University, Mankato, will talk about how a well-funded and laser-focused right-wing campaign has weaponized the fears of many Americans who are anxious about a diversifying population. Familiar conservative think tanks like the Heritage Foundation and the Center of the American Experiment have spread misinformation and used alarmist rhetoric to mobilize people to pressure school boards to ban teaching about systemic racism, painting the conscientious teaching about American history as a dangerous left-wing ideology being imposed on public school children. The consequences extend far beyond the schoolroom doors.