Discrimination as A Barrier to Romani Women's Health and Empowerment: A Qualitative Study.

ABSTRACT

This qualitative descriptive case study investigates perceptions of health and empowerment among Romani women and social workers in Marseille, France. I used constructivist grounded theory to develop theory emerging from interviews and participant observation data. Results suggest intersectional discrimination at individual and structural levels led to inequalities in accessing resources essential to their survival in France, including healthcare, housing, and employment. This study provides insight into the ways discrimination impacts health inequalities experienced by Romani migrant women. Ultimately, this research highlights essential knowledge and strategies for social workers and public health professionals to empower Romani women by connecting them with essential resources and by envisioning anti-racist interventions to alleviate their experience of individual and structural discrimination.