A recent study by the University of Cincinnati indicates that immigrants and refugees who took part in a civic leadership initiative experienced a boost in their sense of empowerment upon acquiring knowledge about their legal entitlements, civic rights, and the social, cultural, and political environment of Cincinnati.
“The most salient change participants reported in connection to their involvement in the program were changes in consciousness related to power, rights and opportunities which immigrants and refugees are entitled to,” the researchers explain. “Transformative impacts of a civic leadership program created by and for refugees and immigrants.”
Civic leadership
The researchers investigated the efficacy of a civic leadership program, developed by and for refugees and immigrants in collaboration with a local government representative and academic scholars.
The program was created by Civic Action for Refugee Empowerment (CARE) Cincinnati, a community-led initiative comprising 12 members of the refugee community, the director of Cincinnati Compass (an immigrant and refugee welcoming initiative), and the University of Cincinnati researchers.
To evaluate the program’s impact, the researchers conducted 30 qualitative interviews with participants, garnering their views and experiences.
“I didn’t know that you could speak up and ask for things like street signs and things like that, and now I know these are things you can do,” said one study participant.
Notable absences
According to the study, immigrants and refugees are notably absent from decision-making bodies in the United States, as well as in many other countries that receive immigrants. These individuals also confront significant challenges when attempting to attain political representation and influence.
The researchers emphasize that the adverse effects of underrepresentation on marginalized communities are well-documented and include increased social and political alienation, as well as negative psychological consequences. As such, interventions that aim to address underrepresentation must be approached thoughtfully and collaboratively with these communities to avoid further marginalization.
The study identified two significant themes. Firstly, participants reported a shift in their awareness of power, rights, and opportunities that immigrants and refugees are entitled to when involved in a program designed by and for the refugee community. Secondly, participants gained valuable skills, knowledge, and connections, equipping them to access civic engagement opportunities and exert political influence in Cincinnati.
“This program should not act as an exact ‘blueprint’ for empowered immigrant and refugee civic engagement,” the researchers conclude, “but as an example for collaborative work which gives power to immigrants and refugees to transform the civic engagement to be more inclusive and equitable.”
