Including Critical Whiteness Studies in the Critical Human Resource Development Family: A Proposed Theoretical Framework

Abstract

While the human resource development (HRD) literature has made strides to incorporate critical race theory, critical Whiteness studies has not been substantively addressed. White experiences need to be incorporated into organizational learning literature in racialized ways. Unpacking the racialized experiences of Whites in organizational settings is important because it challenges the often-unstated assumption that White experiences are normal and neutral. The uncritical centering of Whiteness is part of what makes the marginalization of racialized others possible, and critical Whiteness studies research seeks to contribute to the decentering process. This article integrates literature exploring racialized White experiences from disciplines, including history, sociology, theology, and legal studies within an existing framework for HRD. This research will place special emphasis on aspects of critical Whiteness that relate to the workplace. The purpose of this article is to advance a theoretical framework that will enhance HRD’s capacity for research and action pertaining to workplace racism.