Toward a Palestinian Critical Race Theory in Education

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Toward a Palestinian Critical Race Theory in Education
Language: English
Authors: Amanda Najib
Source: Critical Education. 2026 17(1):128-154.
Availability: Institute for Critical Education Studies. 2125 Main Mall, EDCP, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4 Canada. Tel: 604-822-2830; Web site: https://ices.library.ubc.ca/index.php/criticaled/
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 27
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Evaluative
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Critical Race Theory, Racism, Student Experience, Immigrants, Barriers, Cultural Relevance, Social Justice, Colonialism, Activism, Arabs, Religion, Muslims, Islam, Racial Identification
Geographic Terms: Palestinian Territories, United States
ISSN: 1920-4175
Abstract: This paper explores the unique experiences of Palestinian Americans within the U.S. education system through the lens of Critical Race Theory (CRT). Addressing a gap in existing literature, the research question investigates how racialization, demonization, and structural racism shape the educational and social experiences of Palestinian Americans. Utilizing a qualitative analysis of legal documents, media reports, policy papers, and academic literature, the analysis reveals pervasive racialization and demonization, significant structural and institutional barriers, and severe suppression of political activism. The analysis suggests that Palestinian Americans face distinct and multifaceted systemic challenges that are not fully captured by traditional CRT frameworks. The development of a Palestinian American Critical Race Theory (PalestinianCrit) is proposed to expand CRT's adaptability and better address these specific experiences. This research broadens the scope of CRT and calls for targeted advocacy and reform to promote social justice and equity.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1499654
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:This paper explores the unique experiences of Palestinian Americans within the U.S. education system through the lens of Critical Race Theory (CRT). Addressing a gap in existing literature, the research question investigates how racialization, demonization, and structural racism shape the educational and social experiences of Palestinian Americans. Utilizing a qualitative analysis of legal documents, media reports, policy papers, and academic literature, the analysis reveals pervasive racialization and demonization, significant structural and institutional barriers, and severe suppression of political activism. The analysis suggests that Palestinian Americans face distinct and multifaceted systemic challenges that are not fully captured by traditional CRT frameworks. The development of a Palestinian American Critical Race Theory (PalestinianCrit) is proposed to expand CRT's adaptability and better address these specific experiences. This research broadens the scope of CRT and calls for targeted advocacy and reform to promote social justice and equity.
ISSN:1920-4175