The Struggles Black Women Face in Federally Qualified Community Health Centers in South Carolina: A Phenomenological Exploration of Women in Leadership Positions

This qualitative interpretive phenomenological study examined the professional lived experiences of Black women who hold leadership positions within Federally Qualified Community Health Centers (FQHCs) in South Carolina. The researcher examined their experiences through the lens of Belenky’s (1986) Ways of Knowing framework, focusing on self-expression, voice, and how the participants processed their leadership experiences. In addition, the study draws on Crenshaw’s Intersectionality and Black Feminist Post-structuralist theories. The study explores the difficulties, successes, and strategies these women use, focusing on stereotypes, challenges in leadership roles, diversity of experiences, and the importance of voice themes. The study provides practical suggestions for empowering and assisting Black women leaders in FQHCs through a detailed investigation. These suggestions cover essential topics such as organizational adjustments, networking and mentoring initiatives, and focused professional development programs. The main goals of organizational changes are to provide accountability and open reporting systems to monitor progress and to build an inclusive culture that cherishes diversity and genuine voices. Programs for networking and mentoring are suggested as a way to establish an encouraging and growth-oriented environment. Additionally, the importance of specialized professional development programs is highlighted to overcome hidden biases, improve leadership capabilities, and advance cultural competency. The researcher’s findings shed light on the difficulties these women face in leadership positions, their resilience and coping strategies, and the role of different ways of knowing in their experiences. The study highlighted Black women’s successes and challenges in leadership roles within selected FQHCs in South Carolina. It emphasized the need to respect and validate the contributions and voices of Black women leaders. In this study, the researcher delves into the implications, limitations, and recommendations that arise from the research findings. In addition, the study’s conclusions and suggestions can be used as a manual by FQHCs and other businesses to create workplaces that value inclusion, diversity, and leadership.