Parent Leadership and Organizing for Justice: A National Landscape Analysis

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Thursday 4:15pm
  In Poster Session: The Parent Power and Leadership Project: Transforming Families Through Community Organizing

Abstract

1. Objectives or purposes

This study presents the first-ever national landscape analysis of parent leadership and organizing groups in the United States, examining who these organizations serve, what issues they tackle, how they engage families, and how they operate.

2. Perspective(s) or theoretical framework

Parent leadership and organizing initiatives are critical, often overlooked contributors to racial, social, and economic justice. These efforts—typically led by and for parents, especially women of color—support families while working to dismantle systemic inequities in education, housing, health, and more (Cossyleon & Geller, 2023). While research documents the positive impacts of these organizations on civic engagement and individual well-being, little is known about their national scope, characteristics, and outcomes.

3. Methods, techniques, or modes of inquiry

This mixed-methods study drew on survey and qualitative data collected in 2021–2022. The research team developed the Parent Power and Leadership Survey in partnership with parent leaders, staff, and philanthropic stakeholders. Using an expansive list of 699 organizations identified via national databases, web searches, and national networks, the team received responses from 182 organizations. Criteria for inclusion required groups to focus on racial, social, or economic justice, work with families, and engage in leadership development. Five focus groups complemented the survey, offering deeper insights into experiences and aspirations within the field.

4. Data sources, evidence, objects, or materials

Data sources include descriptive survey data, open-ended survey data, and focus group data.

5. Results and/or substantiated conclusions or warrants for arguments/point of view

Parent leadership organizations exist in every U.S. state, D.C., and Puerto Rico, spanning rural, suburban, and urban areas. The vast majority serve racially and linguistically diverse communities and are composed primarily of women, particularly Black and Latina mothers. Organizations typically focus on multiple issue areas, with K–12 education, early childhood education, and racial equity being the most common. Many report policy wins in areas such as housing, public health, juvenile justice, and mental health. Despite their impact, these groups often operate on small budgets and depend heavily on foundation funding. Children of parent leaders benefit from exposure to organizing efforts, often joining in events and developing advocacy skills themselves. More than one-third of organizations offer youth leadership opportunities, though many expressed a desire to do more if additional funding were available. Responses highlighted a need for deeper engagement with men, LGBTQ+ communities, and underrepresented geographic regions.

6. Scientific or scholarly significance of the study or work

This study affirms that parent leadership organizations are essential components of social justice movements. Their holistic, relationship-based approaches simultaneously support families and build collective power for systemic change. To sustain and scale their impact, these groups require long-term, flexible funding, recognition as racial justice actors, and expanded opportunities for collaboration and networking. Increased youth engagement and inclusive practices for underrepresented populations also present promising avenues for future growth. Ultimately, authentic parent leadership—especially by women of color—must be recognized as foundational to educational equity and broader justice movements.

Author

• Joanna D. Geller, New York University