Martin Center Opposes Biden Rule on Critical Race Theory

Last week, Jenna A. Robinson, president of the James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal, submitted a letter to the U.S. Department of Education opposing “The Biden Rule,” a directive that would make critical race theory a priority in grant competitions. 

Dr. Robinson asked Education Secretary Dr. Miguel Cardona to withdraw “Proposed Priority 1—Projects That Incorporate Racially, Ethnically, Culturally, and Linguistically Diverse Perspectives Into Teaching and Learning” from consideration due to its reliance on discredited and divisive works, its failure to incorporate rigorous standards for research quality, and its failures to define terms and to account for student age and developmental levels. Proposed Priority 1 also fails to uphold equity because it does not address persons and communities affected by persistent poverty, regardless of their race.

“Critical race theory has been thoroughly discredited. It shouldn’t be used by the federal government in any capacity,” said Robinson. “It undermines equality of opportunity and the rule of law.”

The public is invited to comment on Proposed Priority 1 until May 19. 

To read the Martin Center’s letter to the Department of Education and learn more about Proposed Priority 1, click here.