On Critical Race Theory

Victor Ray’s On Critical Race Theory is a short, no-nonsense guide to what CRT actually is—stripped of the political noise. He breaks down its core ideas in a way that’s easy to follow, showing how race and law intersect to maintain inequality. He touches on key concepts like the social construction of race and interest convergence (how racial progress tends to happen only when it benefits those in power). More importantly, he clears up the biggest misconceptions, like the idea that CRT is about blaming individuals rather than examining systems.

Ray also dives into the backlash against CRT, explaining how it's been distorted into a political boogeyman. He argues that the real issue isn’t CRT itself but efforts to shut down discussions about race and history. By connecting CRT to real-world issues—housing discrimination, incarceration, wealth gaps—he makes a strong case for why understanding these ideas matters beyond academia.

If you want a quick, clear, and thoughtful read on CRT without the noise, this book is a great place to start. Ray’s writing is sharp, engaging, and refreshingly straightforward, making a complex topic feel accessible and relevant.