INTERSECTIONAL FEMINISM
- Izzy
- Jan 1, 2018
- 2 min read
WHAT IS INTERSECTIONAL FEMINISM?
“The complex, cumulative manner in which the effects of different forms of discrimination combine, overlap, or intersect."
Merriam-Webster's collegiate dictionary.
Intersectional Feminism is a term that has been around for decades, but just recently has become a more popular topic of discussion. The true definition of Feminism is “The advocacy of women's rights on the basis of the equality of the sexes.” Now, I say “true” because there seem to be a lot of misconceptions as to what Feminism is and what Feminists want. Feminism IS NOT detrimental to men. Feminism, as stated before, is the promotion of equality between sexes. SO, what is Intersectional Feminism? Intersectional Feminism is looking at ALL the characteristics of a women that make her more prone to discrimination.
These characteristics include:
Race
Gender
Sexuality
Class
Disability
Education
We need to recognize that these forms of discrimination are not separate, but integrated into one big problem. An Intersectional Feminist would recognize that a white woman is discriminated because of her gender, but is privileged because of her race. In the same sense a Muslim lesbian is discriminated against because of her race, gender, AND sexuality. Intersectional Feminism is a deeper form of feminism that goes past gender and acknowledges all the other aspects of women that can make them vulnerable to prejudice and bigotry.
HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT INTERSECTIONAL FEMINISM?
Recognize levels of discrimination. Learning and understanding the views of other feminists is a big part of becoming more knowledgeable on the topic of equality.
Listen to the stories other women have to tell about their experiences with inequality and prejudice. Attending a variety of events ( marches, rallies, etc.) is a fantastic way to expose yourself to new viewpoints.
Educate yourself through books, articles, and documentaries. Make sure to look into who you are getting your information from, and that it is a factual definition or account, not a biased opinion.
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