The Importance of Intersectionality in Feminism
Why your feminism MUST be intersectional.
by MOLLY HARRIGAN ★ MARCH 22, 2021
*DISCLAIMER* Given that I am a straight, white, cis-female, I am in no way trying to discredit anybody else’s experiences, nor am I attempting to speak on behalf of any community of individuals. I am merely hoping to educate others and spread information about the demanding nature of intersectionality within feminism and the prevalence of discrimination in modern activist movements along with the ways we may be able to contribute in a positive manner.
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This past year has been incredible for activists in the United States with numerous movements set with the intention to spark societal change, and feminism certainly did not take the backseat. While we love an uproar in feminism, it’s critical to recognize that modern feminism has not done a great job of being inclusive toward minorities. Though a goal of feminism is to unite women across the world, the current movement has adopted a “one-size-fits-all” ideology which is simply not suitable for the majority of women.
With the aim to establish a common ground between women, this closed-minded way of thinking actually silences women who identify with other marginalized groups. As feminists, it is crucial to understand that feminism is not solely about ending sexism, but also destroying the overlapping systems of oppression that impact women in numerous different ways.
And thus was born our magic word: *INTERSECTIONALITY.* A little history on the term: intersectionality was first coined by critical race theorist and civil rights activist, Kimberlé Crenshaw. Its purpose is to serve as a framework that highlights all aspects of identity that define a woman that exacerbate the oppression she faces in her lifetime.
Intersectionality allows us to understand that while all women are subject to sexism, some women are impacted to a much greater degree due to interconnecting aspects of their identities including race, class, sexual orientation, and disability. A white woman is disadvantaged by her gender, but is at a greater advantage in terms of race. A Latina woman is penalized for both race and gender; a Black lesbian woman experiences oppression on upwards of three fronts. Taking an intersectional approach, we are able to speak out against numerous causes of inequality by standing in solidarity and questioning power institutions, pushing us toward a stronger and more inclusive future for all women everywhere.
Looking through an intersectional feminist lens, we are able to contextualize how different groups of women are fighting overlapping issues at the same time. Kimberlé Crenshaw states, “All inequality is not created equal.” We, as feminists, must prioritize intersectionality as a means of inclusivity and rooting out all forms of discrimination. The Women’s March on Washington’s policy platform claims, “gender justice is racial justice is economic justice.” So: How can WE contribute to these intersectional efforts?
Here’s the Ultimate UGirl Guide on How To Be A Better Feminist:
Soul Search:
In order to start solving the problems at hand, we must confront our own privilege and coming to terms with the roles we play in hindering the intersectionality of the feminist movement. In many cases, this comes unintentionally in passing comments. An example could be something along the lines of asking, “Why are you trying to divide us by bringing race into this… aren't we all women?” It is understandable that those of us with privilege have a harder time recognizing it. Privilege has a way of hiding itself from those of us who have it. Self reflection is key. We are asking you to dig deep and acknowledge what advantages you have in society that may put others at a disadvantage.
Talk it Out:
When working toward an intersectional framework, it’s important to get comfortable with uncomfortable conversations. Without holding each other accountable, we cannot move forward in the direction or at the rate that is key to changing the shape of modern feminist movements. Become okay with making mistakes in your efforts, and keep in mind that perfection is not the goal here. Seek understanding, do your own research, and have conversations with others. Having uncomfortable conversations is part of growth. Learn from your own mistakes; making these mistakes and being called out doesn’t mean you’re a bad person! Take the time to learn. Feminism and intersectionality are not here to make anyone comfortable.
Be an Ally:
It’s no secret that feminism and activism in general have swept the nation, more recently impacting younger generations of activists. Many have taken to social media to boast their political ideologies and views, attempting to use their voices as a means of educating others and mass sharing information to the public. A problem that has come about, specifically when discussing the Black Lives Matter movement, is the unintentional silencing of the oppressed. While many individuals set out with positive intentions to show their support for BLM and other similar movements, attention has been taken away from these marginalized individuals. In building our intersectional feminist framework, we must leave plenty of space for oppressed voices and uplift them. We must amplify their stories and let them be heard, rather than share our own.
So, as we send you out into the world, remember that without an intersectional lens, our feminism cannot truly be considered anti-oppressive. We cannot isolate discriminations and pick and choose which ones we would like to put an end to. We have to work together in the fight for a more hopeful, resilient future that leaves no one behind. Stay educated, stay vigilant, and stay fierce.
Sources:
https://guides.ll.georgetown.edu/c.php?g=592919&p=4172371
https://everydayfeminism.com/2015/01/why-our-feminism-must-be-intersectional/
https://iwda.org.au/what-does-intersectional-feminism-actually-mean/
Cover photo credit: InHerSight.com