Intersectionality and Women of Color

As we close out March and Women’s History Month, it is important to acknowledge that women of color have unique experiences and marginalized identities. Over the years, women have overcome inequities on their quest for social justice within our community and the workplace. As we continue to learn, reflect, and act on racial and gender equity, it is essential to bring an awareness as it relates to intersectionality of women and the experiences and multiple challenges they face. Just this month we tragically witnessed the intersectionality of race and gender in a mass shooting in Atlanta targeting Asian women.

Intersectionality, a term coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, a critical race theorist, includes multiple forms of discrimination, such as class, culture, ethnicity, gender, race, sexual orientation, that unite or intersect marginalized individuals such as women of color. As a result, these overlapping social identities serve as a reminder that women of color have more than one single identity and may experience several forms of discrimination. As an example, a Black woman may face discrimination because of her race, ethnicity, and gender.

 

 LEARN

The 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge does not support nor endorse any advertisements associated with the above content.

REFLECT AND TAKE ACTION

Questions to Consider for Self-Reflection:

  • How will I examine my own attitudes and biases about intersections of social identities facing women?
  • As a leader, what strategies will I implement to mitigate social injustices in the workplace for women impacted by overlapping social identities?
  • As an organization, how will you create safe places for employees to have dialogues about intersectionality and its impact on women in the workplace?

Local Ways to Get Involved: