Intersectionality as theoretical lens of a critical discourse study on black communities lived experience with opioid overdose response

Purpose This article aims to describe the role of critical discourse analysis and intersectionality in our analysis and interpretation process and expand on the contribution of members of Black communities in the design of data-collection instruments, recruitment and data-collection procedures. We seek to provide readers with an instance on the utilization of critical social inquiry and how to involve members of communities under study in research procedures. Design/methodology/approach In the last few decades, public health research has experienced a shift in its research designs and methods. An increasing number of studies have focused on examining minority populations’ experiences grounded in critical social inquiry and incorporated members of those communities in roles beyond “participant.” Intersectionality, which is both an approach to critical social inquiry and a form of praxis, was the theoretical lens of a critical discourse study on Black communities lived experience with opioid overdose response. Findings This paper draws mainly of three aspects of qualitative inquiry in public health research. First, it shows how to utilize intersectionality and critical discourse analysis in analysis processes of the experiences and narratives of Black communities. It also demonstrates how members of those communities can be involved in different processes of the research process, making public health research more inclusive and culturally responsive. Moreover, it unpacks the multiple elements that interplay in the data analysis workflow. Originality/value Research in public health today requires the implementation of more holistic and culturally sensitive research designs and analysis frameworks, especially when the subjects under study are underrepresented groups. Critical social inquiry provides researchers with the flexibility and rigor required to thoroughly understand phenomena related to discrimination in all its forms. The authors highlight the importance of the involvement of members of minorities under study in the hope of better research practices and community informed solutions.