Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9051-3058
Defense Date
2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Social Work
First Advisor
Nicole Corley
Second Advisor
Hollee McGinnis
Abstract
There are approximately 1.7 Black immigrant women in the U.S., and their numbers continue to climb. Unfortunately, just like their Black American counterparts, they face compounded challenges of anti-Black racism, sexism, and anti-immigrant bias (Kolawole, 2016). Anti-Black racism remains a systemic issue in the U.S., impacting IWAD's experiences within social and human services (Carruthers, 2018). Current literature offers limited studies on identity-based discrimination within social and human service agencies, especially as it affects IWAD. This study sought to answer the following three research questions, (1) How do immigrant women of African descent describe their experiences within social and human service agencies? (2) How do immigrant women of African descent discuss experiences in their interactions within social and human service agencies? (3) What suggestions do immigrant women of African descent have for improving social and human service agencies? An exploratory qualitative approach was selected to amplify the voices of IWAD as they navigated social and human service agencies in the United States. Semi-structured interviews with 10 IWAD served as the primary data collection method, as this approach is especially suitable for gaining nuanced insights into the participants' lived experiences. Data analysis followed an iterative process using reflexive thematic analysis. Four themes emerged (1) Accessibility Challenges Influenced by Race & Nativity, (2) Intersecting Identity Based Discrimination, (3) Positive Interpersonal Experiences, (4) Improved Cultural Competence, Diversity, and Inclusion. This dissertation ends with the study strengths, limitations, and future implications.
Rights
© Nicole Campbell
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
12-6-2024