Presented by: Music Workshop — Free music curriculum and new PD series on Music for Well-Being, free through December 2025 at musicworkshop.org

Episode Summary

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, host Mark Ingrassia goes off-script to confront an uncomfortable reality — the misuse of his own family name in the halls of power. When Paul Ingrassia, a Trump nominee for the Office of Special Counsel, was exposed for sharing racist and extremist remarks, Mark knew he couldn’t stay silent.

This episode examines the intersection of ethics, public service, and disability advocacy, revealing what happens when integrity takes a backseat to ideology. Mark draws a sharp contrast between two Ingrassias: one who abused trust, and another fighting to restore it — using his platform to promote inclusion, decency, and accountability in the systems meant to protect the most vulnerable.

Through this lens, Mark redefines what the Ingrassia name stands for — compassion, service, and justice — and calls on all of us to keep watching, questioning, and demanding better from our leaders.

Key Topics

• 🚨 The failed nomination of Paul Ingrassia to the Office of Special Counsel
• 💬 His documented extremist remarks and their implications for federal ethics
• 🧩 Why integrity in government oversight matters for the disability community
• ⚖️ The contrast between ideology and accountability in public service
• 🔦 Reclaiming the Ingrassia legacy through advocacy, inclusion, and truth
• 🧠 Historic and modern-day Ingrassias whose work elevated science, art, and justice
• 🌍 Why vigilance — “sunlight” — still works when we refuse to look away

Featured Legacy Highlights

• Giovanni Filippo Ingrassia (1510–1580): Father of Sicilian medicine; discovered the stapes bone.
• Ciccio Ingrassia (1922–2003): Beloved Italian actor and comedian.
• Anthony Ingrassia (1944–1995): American playwright and director.
• Julien Ingrassia (b. 1979): Champion rally co-driver.
• Angelo Ingrassia (1923–2013): New York Supreme Court Justice.

Each name reflects creativity, intellect, and service — the true spirit of the Ingrassia legacy.

Quote of the Episode
“You can’t have justice when the gatekeeper doesn’t believe in equality.” — Mark Ingrassia
Resources & Links

• 🌐 Website: specialedrising.com — Explore resources, parent coaching, and advocacy tools.
• 🎥 YouTube Channel: Special Ed Rising — Watch interviews, episodes, and insights.
• 💗 Support Ray’s Respite Care: [GoFundMe Link in Show Notes] — Help build vital support for families caring for loved ones with disabilities.
• 🎶 Sponsor: Music Workshop — Learn more at musicworkshop.org.

Closing Message

This episode is more than a response to controversy — it’s a reclamation. The Ingrassia name doesn’t belong to hate; it belongs to hope. Through awareness, empathy, and unwavering accountability, we can all redefine what integrity looks like in action.

Let’s start prioritizing integrity and accountability — on our way to another win!



specialedrising.com

https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission