Unheard Voices: Reviewing the Literature on Black Parental Resistance in Suburban Schools

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 9:45 am - Gold 1
  In Roundtable Session: Intergenerational Resistance, Agency and Power through Youth Activism

Abstract

This literature review examines research on suburban Black parent resistance in education, highlighting their unique challenges and strategies. It analyzes three key strands: (a) how “suburban” is conceptualized in Black social science literature, (b) resistance practices among suburban Black parents, and (c) Black parent resistance across geographic contexts. Using BlackCrit as a theoretical lens, the review finds that “suburban” is a multifaceted concept requiring deeper analysis. It also reveals that Black parents resist through diverse strategies shaped by race, class, and gender. The study concludes with recommendations for research and practice, emphasizing the importance of engaging Black parents in participatory decision-making and policy development to create more equitable educational systems.

Author

• Natosha Folarin Daniels, University of Texas at Austin