Community participation reconsidered: feminist participatory action research with Hmong women
Author(s):
Carr, E. Summerson; Yoshihama, Mieko
Format:
Journal article
Citation:
Journal Of Community Practice, Volume 10, Issue 4 (2002). pp. 85-104.
Language:
English
Abstract:
This paper describes the process of planning, developing, and implementing a community-based project with Hmong women in a large Midwestern city. Combining action and research to forge relationships, identify common goals and garner resources, the Hmong Women's Project applied principles of both feminist and participatory action research (PAR). In light of the successes and challenges of this ongoing project, we critically evaluate the oft-encouraged goal of 'maximum community participation' in PAR projects by questioning common definitions of 'community' and 'participation.' We argue that the parameters of what constitutes a 'community' and what counts for 'participation' are inherently unstable, requiring constant negotiation of ideas, values, identities and interests among all who participate in a PAR project (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)