Kimberlé Crenshaw on Backtalker; Intersectionality; CRT and in defence of Black Studies
Make It Plain PodcastPlay episode
Show notes
We share what may have been the last ever event at Birmingham City University for Black Studies, a conversation between Kehinde and, Professor Kimberlé Crenshaw on her ground breaking new book 'Backtalker'. More than 400 people came out to celebrate the work.
The fight to preserve Black Studies is more urgent than ever—and it's rooted in a history of erasure, resistance, and unwavering community strength. In this deeply personal and powerful episode, the pioneer behind critical race theory and intersectionality, pulls back the curtain on how systemic forces are rewriting history and silencing truths—yet black communities continue to fight back with resilience and sharp analysis.
Crenshaw shares eye-opening stories from her own life—like nearly being killed by her ex in college, and the relentless efforts to undermine Black women's experiences—highlighting the critical need to defend the frameworks that illuminate racial and gender injustice. She explores how powerful narratives are deliberately erased—whether through bans on books, attacks on Black Studies curricula, or censorship of vital concepts like intersectionality—and exposes how these acts aim to rewrite the story of racial progress.
You'll discover how right-wing forces are systematically dismantling the academic and cultural pillars that document and challenge racial oppression. Crenshaw breaks down the real impact of banning ideas like critical race theory, queer theory, and Black Studies—an assault not just on education, but on democracy itself.
She also shares strategic lessons on how activists, scholars, and communities can push back effectively—by reclaiming history, advancing intersectional analysis, and resisting the forces that threaten to erase the wisdom of marginalized voices.
This episode is perfect for students of social justice, educators, activists, and anyone committed to understanding how embedded power structures operate—and how to dismantle them. Crenshaw's insights equip us with the tools to fight for an authentic, inclusive "we" that acknowledges all of our experiences and histories, especially those most vulnerable.
Why does the attack on Black Studies and intersectionality matter? Because the future depends on whether we will defend the knowledge that roots us in truth, or allow it to be wiped out. Join Professor Crenshaw—whose work helped shape the civil rights movement and who continues to lead the fight for justice—and get inspired to speak back and stand firm in this crucial moment.
Get your copy of Backtalker now: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/446848/backtalker-by-crenshaw-kimberle-williams/9780241585221
Read the public letter and sign the petition in support of Black Studies at BCU https://c.org/hnpyKBCX7X
Read about the attack on Black Studies:
BBC: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cwy2d6eg050o
The Voice: https://www.voice-online.co.uk/news/uk-news/2026/05/18/they-just-dont-care-about-black-stuff-prof-kehinde-andrews-slams-decision-to-axe-bcu-black-studies-degree/
Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/education/2026/may/12/birmingham-city-university-urged-not-to-axe-black-studies-ma
In the Times Higher: https://www.timeshighereducation.com/news/black-studies-masters-course-close-birmingham-city
Join Harambee OBU: www.blackunity.org.uk
Written and hosted by: Kehinde Andrews
Edited by: Kadiri Andrews
Artwork by: Assata Andrews
