Intersectionality is a revolutionary concept in the world of identity politics. It highlights the interaction of multiple kinds of oppression and? Or discrimination that can be experienced by an individual. For example, if someone identifies as a woman but also as a person of colour, her experiences of oppression will be different to that of a white woman and of a man of colour (MOC). The intersection of these two identities creates a unique and often overlooked experience of oppression.

​

This is exemplified in what is most commonly known in white feminism: a “feminism” that tends to ignore the experiences of women of colour, queer women, women with disabilities, etc. In the feminist movement, it needs to be acknowledged that we can be simultaneously privileged and oppressed by different aspects of our identities, and so a diverse range of voices need to be heard in order to avoid a movement exclusive to a demographic that doesn’t experience the array of issues faced by a majority women.

​

So, as someone who wants to improve their feminism to be inclusive of all identities, how do you actually go about making sure your feminism is intersectional? It’s bit the easiest tast, and everyone is still learning how to be the raddest of feminists, but here are a few pointers:

​

1. Listen:

​

Understand that there is always plenty of room to learn. It can be hard not to chime in with your own experiences, but when someone who has a different experience to you is speaking, let them be heard. If they say something you may not agree with or understand, rather than flexing your debating skills, hear them out, see if they’re willing to explain further, or simply go research the issue and educate yourself. Google does wonders guys. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, but also don’t feel entitled to answers; sometimes explaining a complex, emotionally draining issue isn't what every person wants to do with their day.

​

2. Check your privilege:

​

Don’t freak out when someone calls you out for being problematic. No one is perfect and we all make mistakes, but arguing with someone’s experiences further silences their voices and perpetuates a singular perspective in social politics. It can be difficult accepting that as a progressive lefty you’ve become your own problematic fave, but if someone makes you aware of this, more often than not they’re trying to stop you from repeating the blunder in the future (angry or not). Realise that you may be biased, and explore this, it can be intimidating, but there’s nothing to lose by challenging your own thoughts (except biased views). Even though you may not see it at the time, we’re all in this together, and once we know that we are, we’re all (inclusive) stars, and you’ll see that.

 

3. Nobody puts baby in the corner:

​

Marginalised peoples often get their views disregarded, or have them presented by people in privilege. Although the latter may seem like it comes from good intentions, not letting someone reclaim a space that is not traditionally theirs (especially roles of influence and/or power) and speak about issues that affect them makes you kinda trash. Only they can speak about and truly understand their lived experiences. Stealing that platform from them, whether in a discussion with friends or in a policy debate, is asserting your power in the situation and perpetuating that power imbalance. Do you really want to be that person? (Hint: the answer is no)

​

Hopefully this has been somewhat informative, maybe even educational if I did something right. Be good activists my children, and keep learning good stuff.

​