A Space of Our Own: Examining a Womxn of Color Retreat as a Counterspace

Abstract

This qualitative study investigated a Womxn of Color retreat at a predominantly White institution in the Midwest. The research question is: How and, in what ways does the Womxn of Color retreat align with the concept of a counterspace? An instrumental, embedded single-case study design was executed in conducting this research and multiple data collection methods were used including: interviews, observations, and document collection. The findings demonstrated how the space “countered” the dominant culture at the university where participants are students. The space aligned with the concept of a counterspace in multiple ways, including providing a space for womxns’ experiences and stories to be validated and the development of a supportive and loving community. It also provided a space for Womxn of Color to challenge and resist dominant ideologies. Although findings indicate that the retreat aligned with the concept of a counterspace, it also re-created oppressive interpersonal and group dynamics, indicating that even counterspaces are not devoid of enacting dominant ideologies. The conclusions provide an understanding of Womxn of Color’s experiences on campus, including how Womxn of Color’s stories are silenced and invalidated, how Womxn of Color communities are distinct from other spaces on campus, and the importance of recognizing both the thematic nature of Womxn of Color’s experiences and the differences. This article concludes with implications for practitioners on supporting Womxn of Color.