Newcomer Families with Child Welfare Involvements Facing Racism During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Insights from Child Welfare Workers and Managers

This article reports on findings from a qualitative study that explored the perspectives of child welfare workers and managers on race and racism as experienced by their newcomer families in Ontario, Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study utilized critical race theory lens that allowed for an in-depth intersectional analysis of the subtle manifestations of racism in institutions. Findings demonstrate racism faced by newcomer families in: the child welfare system in specific areas (referrals, investigations, assessments); and racism in other services outside of child welfare that increased the marginalization of this group. A critical race lens provides insights into addressing issues raised by staff.