Identity Shifting Project

Jointly led by the Federation of Black Canadians and the University of Toronto

 

 

SHARE YOUR PERSPECTIVES ON IDENTITY SHIFTING

Project Goals

This study explores Black professionals’ experiences with identity shifting at work. Identity shifting is when people change something about themselves to fit in better at work. Some examples include changing the way you dress, modifying your speech (code-switching), adjusting your hairstyle, or downplaying parts of yourself around coworkers.

This project has 3 broad goals:

Identify factors that lead black employees to identity shift at work (Versus being themselves)

Understand how identity shifting impacts black employees at work

Help organizations create more inclusive and multicultural work cultures

Identify factors that lead black employees to identity shift at work (Versus be themselves)

Understand how identity shifting impacts black employees at work

Help organizations create more inclusive and multicultural work cultures

How We Study This

Interviews with Black Employees

These interviews will explore 3 key areas:

  • What identity shifting strategies do you use at work?
  • What environmental factors make you feel like you have to identity shift? What makes you feel like you can be yourself?
  • How do you feel about your organizations’ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies and practices?

Study Eligibility

Black Employees who:

  • Live and work full-time in Canada
  • Are at least 18 years old
  • Speak English
  • Have the ability to give informed consent
  • Can commit 45-60 minutes for an interview

In addition to learning about the results once the study concludes, you will receive a $30 Amazon e-gift card as compensation for your time.

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