Black voices and thoughts in general and special education: introducing the special issue

Abstract

Abstract At this current time in history, many Black people in the United States are in perilous positions. Moreover, Black students find themselves in similar situations in regards to their education. Over the past two years, the effects of the global Covid-19 pandemic and on-going police violence against Black people have created an atmosphere that is suffocating and demoralizing. Strong and continued discourse is needed to provide solutions to on-going social and educational inequities that our students face. These inequities have only been further exacerbated by the pandemic and turbulent political atmosphere. This introduction to the special issue provides the context for why the voices and thoughts of Black scholars matter so much at this time. As it appears, it is wise too not stand idly by when the future of Black students is at stake. Scholars in this special issue are standing up to represent at a time when freedom seems to be in danger at all levels.