intersectionality

[in-ter-sek-shuh-nal-i-tee]

noun

1. Also called intersectional theory. Also called intersectionality theory;. the theory that the overlap of various social identities, as race, gender, sexuality, and class, contributes to the specific type of systemic oppression and discrimination experienced by an individual (often used attributively).

   Her paper uses a queer intersectionality approach.

2. the oppression and discrimination resulting from the overlap of an individual’s various social identities.

   the intersectionality experienced by Black women.

Word History and Origins

Origin of intersectionality¹

Coined in 1989 by U.S. legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw (born 1959); intersectional ( def. ) + -ity ( def. )

Example Sentences

Pop culture became increasingly enmeshed in questions of identity, intersectionality, racial justice, gender and queerness.

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When it comes to speech, “an institution may not take, express, or assert a position or opinion” on anti-racism, bias, critical race theory, implicit bias, intersectionality, prohibited discriminatory practices, racial privilege,” the law states.

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He has continued Dr. King’s legacy in building such a coalition that address the intersectionality of systemic racism, poverty, environmental degradation and religious nationalism.

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This layered approach to understanding discrimination is called “intersectionality” and it’s a policy change employers will need to take note of in their written policies, said Mesa, the employment attorney.

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Strong: There’s an intersectionality with these films as stories with real things in our world.

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