Enacting Social Change Along the Cultural Identity Spectrum: Intercultural Identity Construction in Faith-Based Community Organizations

Abstract

This study employs Cultural Identity Spectrum Theory to analyze identity construction and positioning of faith-based nonprofit organizations (FBOs). Intercultural communication studies have not adequately analyzed religion and identity, particularly as they intersect with socio-economic class and racial marginalization. Because religion is one of the most conflict-ridden social divides, the study situates FBOs as important (inter)cultural sites, and traces an FBO's Secular–Religious location on the Cultural Identity Spectrum to critically engage cultural discourses surrounding the organization, to shift its identity to serve historically marginalized groups. Building on the dialectical approach the study interrogates challenges of creating partnerships with diverse community stakeholders to promote enduring and far-reaching social change.