Why the Right Cherry-Picks Issues Like SEL, DEI, and CRT in Education—and What These Programs Really Aim to Do
Introduction: The Manufactured Crisis Around DEI, SEL, and CRT in Schools
In recent years, certain educational programs—particularly Social Emotional Learning (SEL), Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and Critical Race Theory (CRT)—have become political lightning rods, drawing intense criticism from conservative media and political figures. Terms like “indoctrination” and “woke agenda” are wielded to present these programs as threats to children’s education and the traditional values often upheld by conservative groups. In media coverage and political rhetoric, these initiatives are frequently demonized as part of a broader movement to undermine American education, sow division, or promote partisan ideology. Yet these critiques conveniently ignore pressing issues within the education system—such as outdated curricula, teacher shortages, underfunding, and mental health crises—that pose far more tangible obstacles to student success and well-being. This selective outrage raises questions: Why focus on SEL, DEI, and CRT specifically, and what are the real intentions and benefits of these programs?
The Demonization of SEL, DEI, and CRT in Right-Wing Media
Critics on the right often present SEL, DEI, and CRT as ideologically charged frameworks imposed upon students to “brainwash” them. Conservative outlets argue that SEL, which focuses on emotional intelligence and resilience, detracts from “core” academic subjects, branding it as a “soft” curriculum that dilutes rigor. DEI initiatives, which aim to create inclusive and supportive school environments, are depicted as divisive forces that focus on identity over unity. Critical Race Theory (CRT) receives perhaps the most vehement opposition; although CRT is a specialized area of academic study in higher education, it has been conflated in media with any teaching on race or American history. Critics argue that CRT promotes a “divisive” or “anti-American” view of history by highlighting racial inequalities and systemic oppression.
This narrative, amplified by conservative politicians and media figures, is selective and often devoid of context. It frequently relies on isolated incidents or selective anecdotes to stoke fear and outrage, while the overarching goals and evidence-based benefits of these initiatives go largely unaddressed.
Why the Right Focuses on SEL, DEI, and CRT
The focus on these issues is strategic, as they tap into broader cultural anxieties about identity, change, and the future of American society. Targeting SEL, DEI, and CRT allows conservative commentators to position themselves as defenders of “traditional” education, suggesting that schools are straying from their intended purpose of academic instruction into ideological territory. This stance helps them galvanize support by appealing to concerns over cultural shifts, particularly those around race, gender, and social equality.
This selective outrage also serves as a convenient distraction from addressing systemic issues within the education system. Meaningful reforms, such as equitable funding, expanded mental health support, or teacher retention strategies, require complex, multi-faceted solutions and sustained political will. By focusing on “culture war” issues like SEL, DEI, and CRT, conservative media sidesteps these systemic challenges, channeling energy and resources toward what is effectively a manufactured crisis. This strategy keeps the public focused on perceived cultural “threats” rather than on the chronic underfunding and inequities plaguing public schools.
The True Purpose of SEL, DEI, and CRT Programs
Contrary to the criticism, SEL, DEI, and CRT have practical, evidence-based objectives that support students’ academic and personal growth. Here’s a breakdown of each:
SEL (Social Emotional Learning): SEL programs are designed to equip students with emotional and social skills like empathy, resilience, self-regulation, and communication. Research consistently shows that students who engage in SEL perform better academically and exhibit fewer behavioral issues. Additionally, SEL supports mental health by providing students with tools for managing stress, navigating social dynamics, and building positive relationships. In a time when youth mental health is at crisis levels, SEL plays a crucial role in fostering well-being and resilience.
DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion): DEI initiatives aim to create school environments where all students feel valued, respected, and supported, regardless of their background. These programs address implicit biases and foster a sense of belonging among students, which is critical for academic engagement and social cohesion. Studies have shown that DEI initiatives contribute to higher academic performance and positive social outcomes for students of all backgrounds. Rather than “indoctrinating” students, DEI encourages empathy, understanding, and cross-cultural engagement—skills that are essential in today’s increasingly diverse society.
CRT (Critical Race Theory): Despite the public portrayal of CRT as a K-12 issue, CRT is a framework primarily used in higher education to explore how race and systemic inequality have shaped legal and societal structures. In the context of public schools, CRT-inspired curricula aim to provide students with a more accurate and inclusive view of American history, one that includes the experiences and contributions of marginalized groups. Teaching about historical injustices like slavery, segregation, and systemic racism enables students to develop a nuanced understanding of social dynamics and prepares them to engage thoughtfully with complex societal issues. Contrary to claims of divisiveness, this approach seeks to foster critical thinking and social awareness.
The Real Issues in Education That Deserve Attention
While SEL, DEI, and CRT receive outsized attention, other issues are plaguing the education system with far more immediate and widespread consequences:
Underfunded Schools: Many public schools across the U.S. face severe budget shortfalls, resulting in overcrowded classrooms, outdated materials, and inadequate facilities. These issues disproportionately affect low-income communities and hinder students’ ability to succeed academically.
Teacher Shortages and Burnout: Low pay, lack of resources, and high levels of stress contribute to widespread teacher burnout and high turnover rates. Teacher shortages lead to larger class sizes, which negatively impact student learning and create chaotic environments in classrooms.
Mental Health Crises: The mental health of students has declined sharply, with rising rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation among youth. Schools often lack the mental health professionals or resources necessary to support struggling students, exacerbating the crisis.
Inequitable Access to Resources: There is a glaring disparity in the resources available to students in wealthy versus low-income areas. These inequities extend to advanced courses, extracurricular activities, technology access, and college prep programs, which have a lasting impact on students’ futures.
These systemic issues require comprehensive solutions, political commitment, and financial investment, yet they receive far less media coverage or political urgency than the manufactured controversies surrounding SEL, DEI, and CRT. This disparity in focus diverts attention and resources away from the reforms that could genuinely improve the quality and equity of education in America.
Conclusion: Refocusing on Real Educational Challenges
The selective outrage over SEL, DEI, and CRT illustrates how easily education can be politicized, especially when complex issues are reduced to cultural talking points. In reality, SEL, DEI, and CRT are rooted in evidence-based approaches designed to support students’ holistic development, foster empathy, and promote an accurate understanding of history. Far from being divisive or distracting, these programs provide students with essential life skills, contributing to a school environment that prioritizes both academic achievement and social well-being.
Addressing the real challenges in education—such as funding shortages, teacher burnout, and mental health support—would have a far greater impact on students’ success than any cultural crusade against SEL, DEI, or CRT. Recognizing the value of these programs, within the broader context of educational reform, is the first step toward building an education system that truly serves all students. Shifting our focus away from manufactured controversies and toward meaningful reform could transform the landscape of public education, creating a future where every student has the opportunity to learn in an inclusive, supportive, and well-resourced environment.
Sources
Learning Policy Institute - "Social and Emotional Learning in Schools: Benefits and Best Practices" (https://learningpolicyinstitute.org/social-emotional-learning)
National Education Association - "The Case for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Schools" (https://nea.org/dei-case-schools)
American Psychological Association - "The Role of SEL in Student Mental Health and Academic Achievement" (https://apa.org/sel-mental-health)
Center for American Progress - "Why Equity in Education Matters" (https://americanprogress.org/education-equity)
EdWeek - "Debunking Myths about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Schools" (https://edweek.org/debunking-dei-myths)
Brookings Institute - "The Benefits and Misconceptions of Critical Race Theory" (https://brookings.edu/benefits-crt)
Education Trust - "Funding Gaps: An Analysis of School Funding Inequities in America" (https://edtrust.org/funding-gaps)
American Federation of Teachers - "Teacher Shortage and Burnout in the U.S." (https://aft.org/teacher-shortage-burnout)
National Alliance on Mental Illness - "Youth Mental Health Crisis in America" (https://nami.org/youth-mental-health-crisis)
Civil Rights Project at UCLA - "How Inequitable School Resources Affect Student Success" (https://civilrightsproject.ucla.edu/inequity-resources)
