In the Matter of Charlene Skipwith and Another: Harlem’s mothers fight for educational and social justice

Abstract

This historiography utilizes Critical Discourse Analysis to examine Judge Justine Wise Polier’s ruling in New York City’s first school desegregation suit, In the Matter of Charlene Skipwith and Another (1958). Critical Race Theory and Motherwork serve as conceptual frameworks for this analysis. Drawing on select historical research, the article explores pivotal moments in Black America’s quest for access to resources and equitable educational opportunities for their children. Literature that challenges deficit discourse on Black women’s motherwork is centered. The latter is defined as the work women perform on behalf of their children. The article ends with recommendations to inform, encourage, and increase parent involvement and community engagement in intentionally marginalized communities. School leaders and policymakers must understand and learn from Black mothers and their cultural legacy of resistance and educational advocacy to improve the educational opportunities and outcomes for all children.