Humanizing the Lived Experiences of Muslim, Immigrant-Origin, Women Doctoral Students, and Black Women Faculty: A Photovoice Study

Abstract

Using the frameworks of Critical Race Feminism (CRF) and Representational Intersectionality, we employ photovoice as a form of Participatory Action Research (PAR) method to illustrate the lived experiences and voices of Muslim, immigrant-origin, women doctoral students, and Black faculty in predominantly and historically white institutions (PHWIs) within the United States (U.S.). The findings illustrate how we make meaning of our academic experiences, and challenge grand narratives that are rooted in anti-Blackness, anti-Muslim, anti-immigration, sexism, classism, racism, and other forms of social oppressions in order to provide and develop humanizing approaches to be seen and valued within higher education. This study expands on strategies to support and empower graduate and faculty women of color in the Academy as they navigate and find humanizing approaches to succeed in PHWIs.