How had the old standard set by Plessy v Ferguson permanently damaged black children?

The Plessy v. Ferguson decision in 1896 established the "separate but equal" doctrine, which legitimized racial segregation in public facilities, including schools. This legal framework entrenched systemic inequality, ensuring that black children received inferior education, resources, and opportunities compared to their white peers. The psychological impact of segregation fostered feelings of inferiority and limited aspirations among black children, contributing to long-term societal disparities. Ultimately, this ruling perpetuated a cycle of disadvantage that affected generations of black families and communities.