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Rachael L. Fuller, PhD, is a 2025 graduate of the PhD program in Counselor Education & Supervision, Antioch University, Seattle.

Dissertation Committee:

Keiko Sano, PhD, Committee Chair

Shawn Patrick, EdD, Committee Member

Angela Mensink, EdD, Committee Member

Keywords

Indigenous, Native, identity, reconnection

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2025

Abstract

This research is a qualitative phenomenological inquiry into reconnecting Indigenous participants’ experiences in how they navigate and integrate their cultural heritage, identity, and intergenerational experiences to shape their present and future lives. Previous literature examines characterizing Indigeneity, navigating multiple spaces, and culture as wellness. Rooted in Tribal Critical Race Theory, semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine participants who self-identified as Indigenous. A thematic analysis highlighted six themes of reconnection: a) oppression, b) ancestors, c) belonging, d) barriers to reconnection, e) learning, and f) connection with community. This research makes a contribution to the growing Indigenous identity literature by providing an initial glimpse into the complexities of experiences of folx who are reconnecting.

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Rachael L. Fuller, PhD, 2025

ORCID Scholar No. 0009-0007-1589-267X

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