Navigating Childhood Race and Racism Experiences: Black Graduate Students' Counterstories and Reflections on Being Black

• In Event: Critical Consciousness Perspectives on Race and Racism

Abstract

Current research on Black graduate students at predominantly white institutions (PWIs) is expanding, but it still falls short of capturing perceptions of racism on their racialized identity. The purpose of this qualitative research study increases the existing knowledge of how Black graduate students make meaning of racialized messages received during childhood. Data collection consisted of semi-structured interviews using questions with a critical race theory lens. Data collection indicated themes connected to unpacking racialized identities and the long-term influences of parental messaging on their lives. We conclude with discussion and implications of understanding one's sense of Blackness in graduate education.

Authors

• Kaleb L. Briscoe, Mississippi State University

• Jesse Randall Ford, University of North Carolina - Greensboro