Being in two places at once: A reflexive case study of anti-colonial research activities at the Creek and the University

Authors

  • Erin Rose Ellison California State University, Sacramento
  • Melissa Cantua California State University, Sacramento

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1285/i24212113v12n2/1p95-112

Keywords:

university student development, Youth Participatory Action Research, anti-colonial research, tensions

Abstract

This reflexive case study examines two university-situated scholars interested in supporting under-resourced communities’ access to resources and sociopolitical power. In our Participatory Action Research (PAR) work with children in the US, we face paradoxes and tensions while marshalling university resources to support our under-resourced community partners while also supporting the development of university students involved. Using the frameworks of infiltrator experience, accompaniment, and desire-based research, we critically reflect on our positionalities and research team operations. This analysis provides insight into how we might work against coloniality of the US-based academy while maintaining a connection to it.

 

Author Biographies

Erin Rose Ellison, California State University, Sacramento

Associate Professor, Department of Psychology

Melissa Cantua, California State University, Sacramento

Alumni, recent Master's graduate

References

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Published

24-08-2026