Unveiling the Intersections of Anti-Blackness, Misogynoir, and Parent Advocacy in Special Education

This chapter critically examines the inequities in special education that disproportionately affect Black children with disabilities and their families, particularly Black mothers. It explores how the intersections of anti-Blackness and misogynoir undermine Black mothers’ advocacy for their children’s rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Through personal narratives, historical context, and data from studies involving Black families, the chapter reveals how systemic biases lead to the marginalization of Black children in special education, pushing them into restrictive environments that limit their academic and social potential. By highlighting the resilience and advocacy efforts of Black mothers, the chapter discusses the long-term consequences of these disparities, including segregation from general education and reduced career opportunities due to non-diploma tracks. It calls for transformative policies that center Black mothers’ voices in decision-making processes, implement culturally responsive interventions, and drive equity-focused reforms in special education. Ultimately, this chapter urges educators, policymakers, and advocates to dismantle the systemic barriers that perpetuate inequality and create a more inclusive and just education system for all students.