Mestiza Methodology: Research as a Site of Healing

Abstract

The author’s reflexive account of what led to the construction of research grounded in Chicana Feminist Epistemology (CFE) and a new CFE approach coined Mestiza Methodology is presented. At the core of the methodology is the assertion that research processes must be decolonized in the image of Chicana relationships and sense-making to unearth Chicana knowledge. Drawing upon the hybrid nature of Mestiza intellect, cross-pollinating methods of plática, reflexión, and testimonio are braided to mirror a more culturally organic research methodology that strengthens a collective consciousness of healing.