Immigrant Youth Speak Back to Racism and Discrimination Through a Photovoice Project

• In Event: Creating Positive School Climates and Cultures

Abstract

The paper reports findings from a year-long participatory action research (PAR) project that utilized the photovoice method with immigrant students and their families. The paper focuses on the narratives of ten middle school students who immigrated to the United States within two years of the study and their experiences and feelings of being part of new schools in America. Students report experiencing discrimination, racism, loneliness, and disconnectedness. Additionally, participants related their family’s strengths and assets as ways to overcome the deficit discourse they encountered in their schools. As counselors are often tasked with creating positive school climates and cultures, their involvement in culturally responsive schools is vital to supporting immigrant students.

Authors

• Maria L. Gabriel, Poudre School District

• Kevin C. Roxas, Western Washington University

• Kent Becker, University of Wyoming