Lifting the Veil: Utilizing Critical Qualitative Inquiry to Demystify the Public Policymaking Process

Abstract

Public policymaking processes in the United States have often been characterized as veiled and lacking transparency. This article explores how critical qualitative inquiry can be used to examine the public policymaking process in ways that help demystify the process and open it up for interrogation and critique for greater democratic engagement. Critical questions are raised about which parts of the public policymaking process are hidden and underexplored and how researchers interested in advancing knowledge, justice, and empowerment for communities of color can use critical qualitative inquiry to “unveil” components of the process for greater advocacy and civic engagement.