Methodological Inclusion: On conducting fieldwork in Latin America with NGOs and Grassroots Organizations

Session Submission Type: Roundtable

Abstract

What does inclusive research look like? In this roundtable, a group of former fellows with the Inter-American Foundation’s Grassroots Development Fellowship will reflect on the promises and pitfalls of conducting field research in collaboration with local organizations across Latin America. Discussing a range of experiences from Honduras, Colombia, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, the Dominican Republic, and Peru, we emphasize the specific methodological adjustments made when conducting research alongside groups on the ground, offering lessons learned for future researchers. We highlight the openings that these relationships can offer, and the challenges they pose, while recognizing the responsibilities researchers take with us, even - or especially - once we’ve left “the field.”

Whether working with indigenous rights’ groups, environmental justice organizations, women seeking greater political inclusion, recently deported youth, or men living with HIV/AIDS, this roundtable discussion departs from a common commitment to striving for inclusion in every aspect of research: from design, to data collection, to dissemination and implementation of results. We approach our individual projects from the idea that more horizontal relationships with local actors in research is essential. We also recognize, however, that “inclusion” can mean many different things. We will talk together with those in attendance about what kinds of inclusive methods and practices are fruitful and, in the end, most effective in working towards justice, and in support of local communities, in all stages of research.

We are applying for a Ford-Lasa Special Projects Grant to continue the conversation we begin with this roundtable and publish our findings.

Sub Track

• Otros Saberes and Alternative Methods

Session Organizer

• Amelia Frank-Vitale, University of Michigan

Chair

• Amelia Frank-Vitale, University of Michigan

Discussant

• Kevin J Healy, Georgetown University

Presenters

• Claudia A Baudoin Farah, University of Florida

• Flavia Oliveira, University of California Santa Cruz

• Amarilys Estrella, New York University

• Maria A Gonzalez, University of South Florida

• Scott D Odell, Clark University, Graduate School of Geography

• Christopher J Parisano, The Graduate Center - City University of New York

• Amelia Frank-Vitale, University of Michigan

• Jose E Hasemann, University of Connecticut

• Diana Hoyos Gomez, University of Pittsburgh

• Fernando Galeana Rodriguez, Cornell University

• Hector Ruiz, University of Pittsburgh