I Can’t Be Racist—I Teach in an Urban School, and I’m a Nice White Lady!

Abstract

This paper examines, through the lens of critical race theory (CRT), beliefs often asserted by self-described,open-minded white educators about their students of color. While these teachers may perceive themselves as liberaland inclusive, their interactions with students of color are shrouded by white privilege which can be disenfranchisingto students of color. By countering these ascribed beliefs with research, theory, and qualitative experiences, theauthors aim to expose how white privilege manifests within the typical classroom and to invite all white educators toexamine their racial attitudes and beliefs. Using CRT, the authors* make recommendations for strategies to developwhite teachers into white allies.