Through Our Lens:

Photovoice research is a powerful method that strongly aligns with the core values of counseling, emphasizing direct experiences, dialogue, advocacy, and social justice. By combining the power of photographs, stories, and dialogue, Photovoice allows us to delve into the multifaceted, intersubjective, and intersecting experiences of marginalized individuals, with a focus on social justice and transformation. In this study, we adopt the Photovoice methodology, informed by intersectionality theory (Crenshaw, 1989, 1991; Hunting, 2014), to explore the healing experiences of Queer Women of Color (QWoC) within and beyond the counseling context.

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Our Framework: Intersectionality and QWoC Experiences

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At the heart of our exploration of QWoC healing experiences is the recognition of their multidimensional and interconnected identities—an integral concept underscored by intersectionality theory. QWoC navigate a diverse range of identities, including race, ethnicity, gender, religion, education, sexuality, and ability status, which contribute to a unique tapestry of privilege and marginalization (Bowleg, 2008; Crenshaw, 1989, 1991; Cuádraz & Uttal, 1999, Hunting, 2014). Our study employs photovoice as the methodology and intersectionality theory as a framework to honor and embrace the interdependence of co-researchers intersecting identities, social locations, and lived experiences. Together, let us delve into the transformative power of photovoice and intersectionality in understanding and celebrating QWoC healing journeys.

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Understanding Photovoice: A Creative Research Approach

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Photovoice is an innovative and fluid Participatory Action Research (PAR) method that captures and examines the experiences of marginalized individuals through photographs, narratives, and dialogue, with the aim of promoting social justice and transformation (Latz, 2017; Trepal & Cannon, 2018; Wang, 1999; Wang & Burris, 1994, 1997). It draws inspiration from critical consciousness, feminist theory, and participatory documentary photography, empowering co-researchers to: (1) visually document their community's struggles, concerns, and strengths, (2) engage in critical dialogue to expand their consciousness of individual and collective challenges, and (3) advocate for social change by influencing policy (Wang, 1999; Wang & Burris, 1997).