Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Department

Social Work

Faculty/School

Lyle S. Hallman Faculty of Social Work

First Advisor

Bree Akesson

Advisor Role

Main Advisor

Abstract

The experiences of racialized immigrant mothers are complex, nuanced, and beautiful. Oftentimes, their stories are described in a way that frames women as helpless victims, merely writing about their challenges in the absence of their protagonism. The stories in this thesis suggest that, against the obstacles unique to racialization, motherhood and immigration, mothers are often the primary caretakers of their families and play a significant role in the development of children, while creatively exploring and responding to questions pertinent to community development. They navigate community life in a place different from the one they grew up in – addressing questions around how to belong and battle isolation, how to shape and contribute to patterns of life that are at once parallel to experiences from back home yet interlinked with existing elements of culture, and how to create conditions that nurture the spiritual and intellectual development of children. These are areas of learning that have been the focus for many residents in Victoria Hills, a neighbourhood in Southern Ontario that has received large influxes of immigrant families for several decades. As such, this thesis highlights and explores the lived experiences of racialized immigrant mothers within the scope of Victoria Hills, displaying how central they are in contributing to vibrant communities and raising generations who will shape future society. This project employed a qualitative research paradigm, incorporating elements of ethnographic and community-based research, and drawing on various theoretical frameworks, including social constructivism, transformative worldview, critical race theory and intersectional feminism. At a time of increasing global isolation and rampant individualism, drawing insight from the experiences of these mothers is pertinent to anyone who wishes to contribute to the development of communities that serve as safe havens. Additionally, exploring factors that enable and hinder a mother’s pursuit of her aspirations for herself, her children, and her community might incite a critical discussion about how to better support mothers as protagonists.

Convocation Year

2025

Convocation Season

Fall

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