Intersectionality

Oluo states the definition of intersectionality as “the belief that our social justice movements must consider all of the intersections of identity, privilege, and oppression that people face in order to be just and effective” (74). She claims that it is the number one requirement of all the work that she does. Oluo describes scenarios about how people can be overlooked for certain traits that define who they are as a person. For example, Oluo is a black, queer woman, but her queer identity may be overlooked by feminist or anti-racist movements. The concept of intersectionality was coined by Kimberle Crenshaw in 1989, as “a way to shed light on the ways in which experiences in both race and gender intertwine to uniquely impact the lives of black women and women of color” (77). He stressed the need to consider this term in social justice movements. The theory and execution of intersectionality was originally practiced by black feminists because they felt there needed to be a more interconnected view of race and gender, but it eventually spread to also include sexuality, class, and ability. Intersectionality makes sure that fewer people are left behind while making systems more effective and fairer. Even though this belief seems like it would improve social justice for everyone, Oluo provides several reasons why it has not been so openly accepted; intersectionality “slows things down”, it “brings people face-to-face with their privilege”, it “decentralizes people who are used to being the primary focus of the movements they are part of”, and it “forces people to interact with, listen to, and consider people they do not usually interact with, listen to, or consider” (78-79).

I think intersectionality is a positive term that only aids in inclusion and understanding of everyone and their unique traits. I understand it can be hard for people to fully embrace it, but I think it is something that is worth trying since it could benefit so many people and make them feel like they are valued.

An example of intersectionality in pop culture could be the t.v. show ‘Modern Family’ because they aim include people from different races, nationalities, sexual orientations, ages, and genders in that show. Even though they do not account for everyone, such as lower income people, at least they are taking that step in trying to showcase a more diverse group of characters on t.v.