Black mothers of children with disabilities stand at the intersection of racism, ableism, and motherhood, navigating systemic inequities while striving to ensure their children’s access to education, healthcare, and community inclusion. Digital platforms have emerged as vital tools for these mothers, allowing them to access critical resources, build support networks, and amplify their voices. This lecture will explore how Black mothers leverage digital spaces for advocacy, storytelling, and resource-sharing, highlighting the innovative strategies they employ to overcome barriers.

The presentation will draw on scholarly research, community narratives, and case studies to examine the unique ways Black mothers use technology to challenge ableism, advocate for accessibility, and foster inclusivity in both physical and digital spaces. It will also delve into the challenges they face, including structural racism embedded in digital platforms and the lack of culturally relevant and accessible resources. By analyzing their approaches, this lecture will underscore the need for intersectional and inclusive design in digital landscapes to ensure equitable access for all.

Ultimately, this presentation aims to advance the theme of “Crip Narratives: Controlling Our Stories” by demonstrating the power of digital storytelling and advocacy in amplifying marginalized voices. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how Black mothers navigate these spaces, the systemic barriers they face, and actionable recommendations to foster equity and accessibility in digital platforms.

Key Points:

• Strategies Black mothers use to navigate digital spaces for advocacy and resource-sharing.
• The role of storytelling in amplifying the experiences of marginalized communities.
• Recommendations for creating inclusive and accessible digital platforms that center Black disabled voices.
• This lecture will not only celebrate the resilience and ingenuity of Black mothers but also serve as a call to action for digital designers, policymakers, and disability advocates to ensure all voices are heard and valued in the digital age.