Intersectional

Intersectional describes a framework for understanding how aspects of a person's social and political identities (e.g., race, gender, class, sexual orientation, disability) combine to create unique experiences of discrimination or privilege. It acknowledges that these identities are not independent but intersect, creating overlapping and interdependent systems of discrimination or disadvantage. Analyzing issues from an intersectional perspective means considering the complex interplay of these factors, rather than examining them in isolation. It emphasizes that experiences are often shaped by multiple, interwoven categories.

Intersectional meaning with examples

• The organization's initiative aimed to address the intersectional challenges faced by low-income, single mothers of color in accessing quality healthcare. This initiative examined how their race, gender, and socioeconomic status combined to create multiple barriers to care, going beyond a simplistic view focusing on a single aspect.
• During the workshop, participants discussed intersectional approaches to environmental justice, recognizing that marginalized communities disproportionately bear the brunt of pollution. It was noted that factors such as race, class, and geographical location intersect to exacerbate the impact of environmental hazards.
• Scholars exploring intersectional feminism argued that it's vital to understand the experiences of women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities, whose struggles are often overlooked in mainstream feminist discourse. The goal was a more inclusive and holistic understanding of systemic inequalities affecting women.
• The documentary offered an intersectional analysis of the criminal justice system, focusing on how race, class, and gender shape the experiences of incarcerated individuals. It highlights how these intersecting identities create distinct realities within the legal system, impacting sentencing and rehabilitation.