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Phiona Brenda Umwali, a Laidlaw Scholar at Cornell University, Investigates Intersectional Oppressions in the Lives of Oromo Immigrant Women.

Research Title: 

The Intersection of Misogyny and Xenophobia in the Lives of Immigrant Women

My research explored the dual marginalization faced by Oromo women, the largest ethnic group in Ethiopia, as they navigated life in foreign countries, particularly Canada. These women encountered intersecting oppressions based on gender, race, and immigrant status, which compound their experiences of discrimination and violence.

Findings:

1. Intersectional Discrimination: Oromo women often face misogyny and xenophobia simultaneously. These overlapping forms of discrimination affect their social, economic, and personal lives, leaving them marginalized and vulnerable.
2. Economic Disparities: Immigrant women, especially those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, struggle with high unemployment rates and limited access to well-paying jobs. Their educational qualifications are frequently unrecognized, forcing them into low-skilled, low-paying positions.
3. Sexual Violence and Harassment: Immigrant women, particularly those in detention centers, are at high risk of sexual abuse and harassment. This abuse is often underreported and inadequately addressed by authorities, leaving victims without justice or support.

Real-World Impact: 
My research highlights the urgent need for policies and interventions that recognize and address the unique challenges faced by immigrant women. By understanding these intersectional issues, governments, NGOs, and advocacy groups can better support the integration and protection of immigrant women, ensuring they have equal opportunities and protection from violence and discrimination.
My work also aims to raise awareness about the compounded oppressions immigrant women face and to inform more inclusive and effective policies and practices that promote equality and justice.

Where did your passion for this research originate?

My interest originated from the need to understand and combat the rising tide of xenophobic hate speech, particularly on platforms like Twitter. The XMP platform's potential to track and visualize the global proliferation of xenophobic rhetoric is crucial in raising awareness and fostering accountability. This research focuses on the use of technology in the fight against xenophobia by monitoring and analyzing hate speech in real-time.

My research within the Xenophobia Meter Project has a specific focus on the intersection of misogyny and xenophobia in the lives of immigrant women, particularly Oromo women. They face a double burden of discrimination—both as immigrants and as women. By examining the specific challenges they face, I aim to highlight how xenophobic rhetoric is often intertwined with misogynistic attitudes, exacerbating the marginalization of these women.

In my research, I analyzed tweets and other online content to identify patterns of hate speech directed at Oromo women, aiming to shed light on how these forms of discrimination overlap and reinforce each other. This not only contributes to a deeper understanding of the unique struggles faced by immigrant women but also serves as a stepping stone toward developing more effective legal and social interventions to protect them.

What is the most memorable moment from your Laidlaw scholarship experience so far?

What is the biggest challenge you came across in your research and leadership journeys so far, and what did you learn from it?

The biggest challenge I faced during my Laidlaw journey was adjusting to being in a completely new environment during my international internship. Even though the work practices weren’t vastly different, being in a new country with its own customs and daily routines was still a big change. I had to quickly adapt and find my footing while managing my responsibilities.

From this experience, I learned the importance of adaptability and staying open to new experiences. It taught me how to be resourceful, how to communicate effectively in unfamiliar settings, and how to thrive even when outside of my comfort zone. 

What does it mean for you to be a Laidlaw Scholar?

Being a Laidlaw Scholar means growth both personally and professionally through rigorous research. I feel a strong sense of responsibility to not only excel in my research broadened my perspective leadership, advocacy, and community. 

Briefly describe a scene from the future you are striving to create.

I imagine a world where technology is seamlessly integrated into our daily lives to address social issues. I think of a platform that is designed to offers real-time monitoring of discriminatory behavior and hate speech and provides resources to address and counteract these issues. I picture a user-friendly design that makes it easy for individuals to report and track discriminatory behavior. The focus on UX and UI would ensure that the it is not only functional but also empathetic and empowers users to take meaningful action against discrimination for a more inclusive environment for everyone.

Quick-fire Questions

🎥 Currently Binging:

Emily in Paris S4

📚 My top book recommendation: 

Fire Exit

🔌 Causes and Projects I'd like to plug: 

I am passionate about exploring the intersection between technology and the law. By combining user-friendly design with cutting-edge research, I hope to design tools that analyze harmful rhetoric and promote awareness.
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