ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the process of making change with a marginalized population, and then focuses on the main outcome themes weaved out of the participatory action research (PAR) project. PAR is characterized by its cyclic approach of assessment, planning, action, evaluation, and reflection. The PAR process carries ingredients quite similar to a therapeutic experience and it could therefore be natural for the music therapist to collaborate in such a process without losing the professional identity. The PAR approach carries a potential tool to help improve the lives of the marginalized groups, as Stige writes: Participatory action research is about giving marginalized people voice and about listening to the voices of others. The Renanim project was about a group of individuals unwilling to accept the Israeli social stance towards marginalized groups. Through the cyclic process of moving forward and regaining their voices it could be said that Renanim gained empowerment through their actions.
