What critical race theory is -- and isn't

Critical race theory is a concept that's been around for decades and seeks to understand inequality and racism in the US. Here's why some say it's needed -- and why others think it's anti-American.

Lawmakers in Tennessee and Idaho have banned its teaching from their public schools' curriculum, while parents in Texas are opposing a school district's efforts to combat racism with lessons in "cultural awareness" -- seen by some as critical race theory. It's a concept that's been around for decades and that seeks to understand and address inequality and racism in the US. The term also become politicized and been attacked by its critics as a Marxist ideology that's a threat to the American way of life.