2007 Articles

Rising above reality: The voices of reentry Black mothers and their daughters

Sealey-Ruiz, Yolanda

This article examines the following three themes present in the educational narratives of a group of Black reentry (returning to college) mothers: (a) reentry as a response to a critical moment, (b) reentry as a strategy for coping with challenges, and (c) reentry as a practical step toward getting their daughters into college. Cursory reviews of Black women in higher education and representations of Black motherhood contextualize the struggles these and other Black women have faced in getting an education, raising their families, and maintaining a positive image. The daughters' voices are included to provide a clearer picture of the effect a Black mother's reentry can have on her children particularly her daughters who are the next generation of females in her family.