Abstract
This study focuses on cleaning services in Lisbon, Portugal, to understand the dynamics of operating in this feminine context, mostly employing women of African origin. From a qualitative and intersectional perspective, the study encompasses 17 semi-structured individual interviews with women working in these services, nine of African origin (Black) and eight of Portuguese origin (White) between 29 and 66 years of age. The thematic analysis returned five themes portraying the specificities associated with women carrying out their activities in a context of low social status, particularly for Black women. Although we verified some of the negative consequences associated with tokenism, the intersections of gender, class, and race/ethnicity generated dynamics that also contradict this phenomenon.
Funder
FCT—Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia, I.P.
Reference76 articles.
1. Hierarchies, jobs, bodies: A theory of gendered organizations;Acker;Gender and Society,1990
2. Social differentiation between dominant and dominated groups: Toward an integration of social stereotypes and social identity;European Journal of Social Psychology,1989
3. Amâncio, Lígia, and Santos, Maria Helena (2021). Gender equality and modernity in Portugal. An analysis on the obstacles to gender equality in highly qualified professions. Social Sciences, 10.
4. Making rank: The lingering effects of tokenism on female police officers’ promotion aspirations;Archbold;Police Quarterly,2008
5. A reconceptualization of physical education: The intersection of gender/race/social class;Azzarito;Sport, Education and Society,2005