Who May Be Competent? Mothering Young Children of Color with Disabilities and the Politics of Care

Abstract

ABSTRACT In this critical, qualitative study, we utilized Disability Critical Race Theory and revolutionary mothering to understand how Mothers of Color who have young children with disabilities made meaning of underlying constitutions of competence within schools, and how they conceptualized possibility for justice in early childhood. Findings reveal how Mothers enacted political clarity regarding ableism and racism as they mothered for respect and care. Specifically, Mothers challenged dominant notions of competence in early childhood and strategically resisted early educational practices that positioned their children as unworthy of childhood. Simultaneously, Mothers dreamed beyond the status quo, imagining early childhood systems that decentered educator expertise, and recentered multiply-marginalized children’s (and their families’) agency. We conclude with implications for teaching and learning in early childhood.