Luethke et al., ‘“We Mattered”: A Photovoice Project About Resettlement Experiences Following Forced Displacement from the Women of MENA Hope’, 2026

Luethke, T., Al-Baaj, Z., Sadd, B., Bruno, M., Daniels Folk, G. and Raves, J. (2026) ‘“We Mattered”: A Photovoice Project About Resettlement Experiences Following Forced Displacement from the Women of MENA Hope’, Refuge: Canada’s Journal on Refugees, 41(1).

Abstract

This study examined the challenges and strengths of resettlement following forced displacement among Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) refugee women in the United States. Using photovoice, participants documented their lived experiences of resettlement through photographs and group dialogue within a strengths-focused framework. Findings revealed three overarching themes: challenges of resettlement; interwoven strengths of identity, community, and culture; and the impact of photovoice participation. Family separation was the central challenge, reflecting ongoing loneliness. Strengths included identity expression (hijab), overcoming challenges, mutual support, belonging, coping practices, and food traditions connecting women to home. Results underscore the value of participatory, strengths-based approaches in research and resettlement practice.