Intersectionality

Intersectionality seemed an easy concept to grasp and I had assumed the definition was widely agreed upon by all. It was like imagining a street intersection, the number of streets that connected to the intersection where you stood, symbolized the different ways you could be discriminated. For example, for Crenshaw the streets would be labelled gender and race. As she would be subjected to discrimination due to her being black and a woman. These factors work in an interconnected way at a particular point rather than these two aspects being observed separately. It is considering both factors together that highlight the obstacles she faces toward equal opportunities. Another example would be Lorde who met at the intersection of three streets that were labelled: sex, race and gender since Lorde was also a lesbian.

Now this all seemed factual, after watching a Ted talk by Crenshaw it was clear that the term meant taking all factors into consideration, rather than the economist approach of “ceteris paribus” which allows you to only study one factor at a time. Intersectionality stresses the complex experiences of every individual rather than choosing more simpler ways to describe them. Hence, it shocked me that most people dismissed intersectionality as an expression to gain more sympathy, attack privilege or work as identifying themselves as victims. As absurd as these explanations may sound they were largely agreed upon on social forums. It totally ignored the idea of holistically analyzing an individual to collectively create a more equal society. Also, dismissing the racism and sexism to be the “others” problem therefore not even trying to solve it.

Discrimination does lead to the more vulnerable group being weighed down. However, this does not mean that group asks for sympathy or an easier way out of things rather it stands for a more mutually understood environment with more equal circumstances. The overpowered group doesn’t scorn the privilege enjoyed by the more powerful group but does question its credibility and if this privilege was actually earned. Additionally, it does take a stand when that privilege is enjoyed at the expense of others. Lastly, intersectionality is not a term coined by victims but leaders such as Crenshaw and Lorde. They don’t ask to be viewed as victimized, they’ve got no time for that. Though, they do work actively to emphasize that intersectionality should be nipped at the bud, to not created more individuals that are discriminated against. They are not victims; this would imply they don’t have the power to project their anger against the discrimination they faced. Thus, we know that’s not true, these individuals strive to be better and make their surroundings more bearable. As Lorde famously said, “the master’s tools will never dismantle the master’s house.” These individuals work for a better society, not because they can’t fight and attain it on their own. Though they are painfully aware that copying their master isn’t sufficient for the long term and a less chaotic future.