Sponsor
Portland State University. Social Work and Social Research Ph. D. Program
First Advisor
Tom Keller
Term of Graduation
Spring 2026
Date of Publication
6-5-2026
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Social Work and Social Research
Department
Social Work
Language
English
Physical Description
1 online resource (ix, 120 pages)
Abstract
This dissertation examines Participatory Action Research as a framework for advancing racial equity in organizational settings, focusing on improving workplace outcomes for African American and BIPOC employees. Grounded in lived experience and professional practice, the study addresses systemic racism, implicit bias, and disparities in hiring, advancement, workload, and recognition. Using a participatory approach, employees engaged as co-researchers in iterative cycles of data collection, reflection, and intervention within a nonprofit organization in Oregon.
Guided by Harro's Cycles of Socialization and Liberation, the study connects theory to practice to analyze how inequities are reproduced and disrupted. Findings indicate modest improvements in leadership support, communication, and relational trust, while persistent inequities remained in workload distribution, recognition, and advancement opportunities for Black and BIPOC staff. The results underscore the importance of disaggregated data, leadership commitment, and centering employee voice in driving organizational change.
The study shows how Participatory Action Research is both a method and an intervention, fostering collective learning, strengthening relationships, and supporting cultural transformation. It also highlights the tension of increased labor placed on BIPOC participants. Overall, the research positions Participatory Action Research as a practical, participatory, and equity-centered approach to achieving sustainable organizational change.
Rights
© 2026 Rekah T. Strong
In Copyright. URI: http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).
Persistent Identifier
https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/44981
Recommended Citation
Strong, Rekah T., "Participatory Action Research Intervention Model to Address African American Workplace Experiences" (2026). Dissertations and Theses. Paper 7158.