Hidden in Plain Sight
Our Mission
Hidden and Hard-to-Reach Populations in our Society
The roots for Hidden in Plain Sight can be traced back to the Silicon Valley, where we witnessed firsthand how issues affecting hidden communities are often further glossed over in affluent and prosperous settings.
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While marginalized or minority populations are often discussed, it is essential to recognize that "hidden and hard-to-reach populations" can encompass a wide range of sizes and degrees of social disadvantage. Most importantly, hidden implies that research is often hard to conduct given the immeasurability and reluctance to come forward due to stigma, discrimination, or other factors.
Vision
At Hidden in Plain Sight, we operate at the intersection of empathy and knowledge, utilizing innovative methodologies with the utmost commitment to ethical and participatory research processes.
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Our vision is to capture the complexity of hidden challenges through 3 main steps:
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1. Innovative Data Collection Methodologies
2. Community-Based Participatory Action Research
3. Examining Ethics and Power Dynamics
We recognize that traditional research approaches may not adequately capture the nuances and complexities of these communities, which is why we seek to develop inclusive, participatory, and contextually appropriate approaches. Through our currently developing manual of best practices, made in collaboration with our partners, we offer practical guidance and step-by-step plans for anyone looking to do research with vulnerable populations.
Learn about the value of CBPAR here.
we recognize that ethical research goes beyond obtaining informed consent and maintaining confidentiality. It requires a critical examination of power dynamics and the ethical implications that arise within the research process. To navigate these power dynamics, we employ reflexive practices that involve continuous self-reflection and self-awareness.