A Critical Race Feminism Analysis of International Female Graduate Students' Experiences Regarding Their Ethnic Name

• In Event: Social Justice in an International Context

Abstract

Although international female students accounted for 44% of the enrolled students in the U.S. (IIE, 2015), their experiences regarding their ethnic name are relatively understudied. This study probes into such experiences of eight international female graduate students who are studying at a Mid-Western, predominantly White university, utilizing Critical Race Feminism (CRF) as the theoretical lens. Data was collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Drawing on qualitative coding methods (Saldaña, 2021), we demonstrate the meaning of ethnic names and multidimensional identities. We also show microaggression, discrimination, and racism they encountered in relation to their ethnic name, and suggest underlying reasons. Finally, implications are offered for students, faculties, and administrators to build an authentically inclusive and diverse community.

Authors

• Peiwen Wang, University of Nebraska - Lincoln

• Xiaoyan Gu, University of Nebraska - Lincoln