Intersectional-Coalition-Building through Cross-Generational Conversations for the Future of IDEA: A Duo-Autoethnographic Study

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 9:45 am - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Equity, Advocacy, and Inclusive Futures: Perspectives on Special Education Practices

Abstract

Given the 50th anniversary of the EAHCA, currently known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA, 2004), we center the experiences of two educational researchers who identify as disabled as well as their intersections with other identities, challenging us to look at how we can “contribute to the imagining of a more just educational future”, starting with ourselves. Using intersectional analysis, we propose reframing IDEA within the context of teacher/leadership education and research. Our duo autoethnographic approach centers our critical autoethnographic voices to inform policy, highlighting intersectional coalition-building, positionality, privilege, and the importance of listening. This research advocates for policies honoring intergenerational collaboration and intersectional experiences to promote social-emotional justice in special and inclusive education.

Authors

• Barbara L. Pazey, University of North Texas

• David I. Hernandez-Saca, University of Northern Iowa