Critical race theory （CRT） is an intellectual movement and framework of legal analysis that examines how race and racism are embedded in social structures, institutions, and legal systems. Originating in the United States in the 1970s and 1980s, CRT challenges the notion that racism is merely the result of individual prejudice and instead argues that it is systemic and perpetuated through laws, policies, and practices.
In the context of India, CRT can be applied to understand how historical and social hierarchies, such as the caste system, intersect with race and colonialism to shape contemporary inequalities. For instance, the production and distribution of local Indian products, like handloom textiles or agricultural goods, often reflect these deep-seated social divisions. Artisans from marginalized communities may face systemic barriers in accessing markets or fair wages, which CRT would analyze as a form of institutionalized discrimination.
Furthermore, CRT emphasizes the importance of storytelling and lived experiences in challenging dominant narratives. In India, this could involve highlighting the perspectives of Dalit or Adivasi entrepreneurs whose innovations in local products—such as organic farming techniques or traditional crafts—are often overlooked due to structural biases. By applying CRT, we can critically assess how race, caste, and power dynamics influence the valuation and visibility of Indian-made goods in both local and global economies. |
