Racial Reckoning in Rural, PA: Uncovering Cultural Models of Racism, Equity, and Inclusion

Abstract

Addressing racism and equity in the US is a complex challenge no matter where it is undertaken. Doing that work in a predominantly white, rural community has presented unique complexities for a grassroots organization in a rural Pennsylvania community. The purpose of this study was to aid their efforts to address these complex challenges in partnership with the local business community. This quality improvement project used Jim Gee's cultural models as a guiding framework to explore the perceptions of racism, equity, and inclusion amongst business leaders and their willingness to address these issues in the local community. This research used interview data with twenty-two leaders from the business community to uncover cultural models that hinder equity and inclusivity in the community and cultural models that present opportunities for a participatory partnership.