Using the emancipatory research paradigm as a conceptual framework, this autoethnography reflects upon participant and researcher relationships within a larger qualitative research study that involved participants labeled 'other'. Issues relating to fear of the 'other', building reciprocal relationships, and who gains from the research are explored. This analysis contributes to the literature by articulating how researchers can employ emancipatory methods and how research institutions can support and encourage such work in order that research is undertaken in more equitable ways.