Understanding Intersectionality: Taking It to the Streets and Beyond

Intersectionality, a term coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw in 1989, is a conceptual framework that examines how various forms of social stratification, such as race, gender, class, sexuality, and ability, intersect and overlap to create unique experiences of oppression and privilege. At its core, intersectionality challenges the notion that social inequalities can be understood in isolation. Instead, it emphasizes the interconnected nature of these systems and how they collectively shape individual and group experiences (Crenshaw, 1989). Before diving into its applications in equality programs or its relevance to ordinary citizens, it is essential to understand what intersectionality is and why it matters. Crenshaw introduced the term to highlight how black women, for instance, face unique forms of discrimination that are not adequately captured by solely examining racism or sexism. She argued that these systems of oppression are not separate but interlocking, creating a "matrix of domination" (Collins, 1990). For example, a black woman may face discrimination that is distinct from what a white woman or a black man experiences because her identity exists at the intersection of race and gender. Intersectionality is not just an academic concept; it is a tool for understanding and addressing real-world inequalities. It recognizes that people hold multiple identities simultaneously, and these identities interact in ways that shape their access to resources, opportunities, and power. For instance, a low-income transgender person of colour may face barriers that are different from those experienced by a white, middle-class cisgender woman. Intersectionality helps us see these nuances and respond to them effectively.

Taking Intersectionality to the Streets

While intersectionality is often discussed in academic and policy-making circles, its true power lies in its application to everyday life. "Taking it to the streets" means translating this framework into actionable steps that ordinary citizens can use to promote equality and inclusion in their communities.

Here’s how this can be done:

1. Raising Awareness: The first step is educating people about intersectionality. This can be done through community workshops, social media campaigns, or even casual conversations. For example, sharing stories that highlight how overlapping identities affect individuals can help others understand the concept. Crenshaw’s work on the #SayHerName campaign, which brings attention to black women who have been victims of police violence, is a powerful example of intersectionality in action (Crenshaw, 2015).

2. Building Inclusive Spaces: Ordinary citizens can advocate for and create spaces that acknowledge and respect intersecting identities. This could mean ensuring that community events are accessible to people with disabilities, using inclusive language, or actively challenging stereotypes. For instance, a local LGBTQ+ group might collaborate with racial justice organizations to address issues faced by queer people of colour.

3. Amplifying Marginalized Voices:

Intersectionality calls for centering the voices of those who are most marginalized. In everyday life, this could mean listening to and uplifting the stories of individuals who face multiple forms of oppression. For example, instead of speaking for others, allies can create platforms for marginalized groups to share their experiences and lead initiatives.

4. Challenging Systemic Inequities:

While individuals may not shape policy directly, they can advocate for systemic change by supporting organizations and movements that address intersectional issues. For instance, supporting campaigns for affordable housing, healthcare access, or anti-discrimination laws can have a significant impact on communities facing overlapping inequalities.

5. Practicing Allyship:

Intersectionality requires individuals to reflect on their own privileges and use them to support others. This might involve calling out discriminatory behaviour, donating to causes that support marginalized groups, or simply being an active listener. Allyship is not about being perfect but about being committed to learning and taking action.

Why Intersectionality Matters to Ordinary Citizens

 For those who do not shape policy, intersectionality is a lens through which to view the world and a call to action. It helps individuals recognize the complexity of human experiences and challenges the idea that inequality can be addressed through a single-issue approach. For example, a white woman advocating for gender equality might use intersectionality to understand how her experiences differ from those of women of colour and adjust her activism accordingly. Moreover, intersectionality fosters empathy and solidarity. By understanding how different forms of oppression intersect, people can build stronger coalitions across diverse groups. This is crucial for creating a more inclusive society where everyone’s needs are acknowledged and addressed.

Intersectionality is more than just a theoretical concept; it is a practical tool for understanding and addressing inequality. While it was conceptualized in 1989, its relevance has only grown in our increasingly diverse and interconnected world. By taking intersectionality to the streets, ordinary citizens can play a vital role in promoting equality and inclusion. Whether through raising awareness, building inclusive spaces, amplifying marginalized voices, or practicing allyship, everyone has a part to play in creating a more just and equitable society. As Crenshaw (1989) reminds us, "If we aren’t intersectional, some of us, the most vulnerable, are going to fall through the cracks." It is up to all of us to ensure that no one is left behind.

 

References

 

Crenshaw, K. (1989). Demarginalizing the Intersection of Race and Sex: A Black Feminist Critique of Antidiscrimination Doctrine, Feminist Theory and Antiracist Politics. University of Chicago Legal Forum.

Crenshaw, K. (2015). #SayHerName: Resisting Police Brutality Against Black Women*. African American Policy Forum. - Collins, P. H. (1990). Black Feminist Thought: Knowledge, Consciousness, and the Politics of Empowerment. Routledge.