PAR Workshop Report: Bridging In|Justices in Education and Housing: Creating a Boston-Based Participatory Action Research Network

Six individuals together from the Participatory Action Research group. — (Left to right, Massasoit PAR attendees at the UMass Boston Bayside Building in Dorchester: Onyinyechukwu Chinonyerem Okoroji, Nahsima Caspa, Shinelle Kirk of HNS, Demilade Adetoro, Cynthia Udenenwu, Nwachukwu Chukwukwado, Andrew Toy. Attendees not pictured: Annmarie Maw, Jenn Beers, Tisha Renee Williams, Tyiesha Thompson)

The Massasoit Participatory Action Research (PAR) Team recently co-hosted the highly impactful Participatory Action Research Network Workshop from October 18 to 20, bringing together activists, scholars, and community members from around Boston to address the intersections of education and housing injustices. Over three days, the event fostered collaboration and critical reflection to set the tone for creating ongoing connection and collaboration.

During the workshop Dr. Patricia Krueger-Henney, a renowned scholar of participatory action research from UMass Boston, offered a compelling overview of the history and philosophy of PAR, urging participants to confront the limitations of traditional research practices that often exclude marginalized voices.

Healthy Neighborhoods’ PAR expert Shinelle Kirk examined the tensions between community engagement and traditional PAR methods, sparking important conversations about harm reduction and meaningful collaboration when conducting research.

Massasoit PAR Team members Samuel Odunga and Dr. Tara Gully-Hightower presented their Study on Global Student Experiences in the context of housing insecurity and higher education. Their work provided insight into how housing challenges shape educational outcomes and shared their findings that non-U.S.-born students in particular struggle with educational realities that reflect marginalizing practices and deficit frameworks. Workshop participants explored potential collaborations and identified actionable steps for future projects. The day ended with a Healing Circle led by Lavender Solstice Gentle Movement & Healing Arts, providing a moment of rest and reflection through mindful practices.

The Bridging In|Justices in Education and Housing Workshop was a testament to the thoughtful care the Massasoit PAR Team and workshop co-organizers Dr. Patricia Krueger-Henny and Shinelle Kirk invested in every aspect of the event. From curated discussions to shared meals and healing practices, the workshop embodied the essence of participatory research by centering community, collaboration, and well-being. With a focus on equity, healing, and sustainable change, the workshop exemplified the transformative power of community-driven research, leaving participants with renewed purpose and a shared vision for social change.