Although Critical race theory (CRT) seem to be used more frequently now, it was actually created over forty years ago. It is an academic framework or movement of civil-rights scholars and activists in the United States who seek to critically examine how racism is embedded in America’s laws and institutions.

CRT seeks to examine the law as it intersects with issues of race and to challenge mainstream liberal approaches to racial justice.

According to Vox, it is receiving widespread attention now because it has morphed into a catchall category, one used by Republicans who reportedly want to ban anti-racist teachings and trainings in classrooms and workplaces across the country.