Unveiling intersectionality: Healing opportunities and challenges in democratizing child welfare policy development process

Authors

Keywords:

Intersectionality, child and family welfare, participatory child welfare policy development, child welfare, decolonizing child welfare

Abstract

This study explores the opportunities and challenges of applying intersectionality as both an analytical lens and a practical guide for creating more equitable child welfare policies. Seven participants working in policy and practice roles at a local child welfare agency took part in two focus groups. Through descriptive thematic analysis, three central themes were developed: 1) democratizing policy development, 2) the healing nature of intersectionality, and 3) the politics of mainstreaming it. While participants shared a belief in the healing potential of intersectionality, their understandings of its implementation diverged. Practice consultants emphasized democratizing the system, whereas policy analysts framed its operationalization within a top-down, bureaucratic structure—dynamic, at times uncertain, yet offering potential openings. A key discussion centered on participatory policymaking as a path to restoring trust, addressing colonial harms, and enhancing accountability. Future research could further examine how intersectionality may support effective, context-specific reforms within child welfare systems.

Author Biographies

  • Kristi Pinderi, University of British Columbia

    Kristi Pinderi is a registered social worker, and a Graduate Student at UBC School of Social Work.

  • Michelle O'Kane, The University of British Columbia

    Michelle O’Kane (she/her/hers) is a PhD Candidate at the University of British Columbia, the Coordinator for the UBC Centre for the Study of Services to Children and Families (Vancouver campus) and a Registered Social Worker

  • Dr. Barbara Lee, The University of British Columbia

    Dr. Barbara Lee is an Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, BC, Director of the CSSCF, and a Knowledge Exchange and Mobilization Scholar.

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Published

2025-04-16

Issue

Vol. 8 No. 1 (2025): Social justice practice

Section

General articles