ABSTRACT
Research has shown that black ethnic minority academics are subjected to discrimination, particularly in the form of racial microaggressions. This results in marginalisation, damaged self-esteem and limited opportunities for career advancement. Black female academics face even greater challenges due to the intersection of race, ethnicity, gender and class. Unfortunately, there is a lack of research on the experiences of black female ethnic minority nurse academics. Therefore, this chapter aims to examine sections of an interview transcript from a PhD thesis, focusing on one individual named ‘Pearl.’ To analyse Pearl’s data, a narrative methodology was employed, utilising a dialogic/performance approach that emphasises the importance of the narrative to both the storyteller (Pearl) and the listeners. This approach is supported by critical race and feminist theorists and will be used to better understand Pearl’s story. In her narrative, Pearl described a culture of white, male hegemony at her higher education institution, where black female academics experience sexism, bullying, systemic racism and interpersonal racism. Her story also highlighted the impact of racial trauma. Despite these obstacles, Pearl did not consider herself a victim and achieved success in academia. The intersecting systems of oppression can significantly shape the experience of black female nurse academics.
