Intersectionality: Ask Catalyst Express

Apr 06, 2021

Intersectionality is a framework for understanding how social identities—such as gender, race, ethnicity, social class, religion, sexual orientation, ability, and gender identity—overlap with one another and with systems of power that oppress and advantage people in the workplace and broader community. By coining the term “intersectionality” in 1989, Kimberlé Crenshaw named and brought visibility to the long-standing interlocking inequities that many women of color, in particular, had been fighting for centuries.

People’s interlocking identities illustrate the diversity that exists within any broad social group (e.g., women, immigrants, trans people, etc.), and where there are similarities and differences in experiences within these groups due to layers of oppression and privilege. For example, when compared to straight, cisgender White men:

White women have different experiences and privileges due to sexism;
Black men experience discrimination due to racism;
Black women will be impacted by both racism and sexism;
A gay paraplegic faces biases based on sexual orientation and perceived ability.

Intersectionality makes plain that advancing women—or any broad group—at work means addressing the other social inequities that they face based on their multiple social identities. Considering individuals from an intersectional perspective is a critical component in creating diverse and inclusive workplaces across the globe.

Catalyst Resources on Intersectionality

Reports

Practices

Chevron Australia—PRIDE: LGBT Inclusion, Intersectionality, and Collaborative Partnerships Supporter Exclusive
“Many employees identify with more than one diversity group (for example, Latino and bisexual, or Black and disabled), and have unique experiences and perspectives. Collaborations across employee networks further Chevron’s values of people and partnership by building cultural competency through sharing knowledge and raising awareness across diversity groups. This, in turn, fosters a more inclusive work environment where employees can bring their whole selves to work.”
PepsiCo, Inc.—Women of Color Multicultural Alliance Supporter Exclusive
“The Alliance’s impact has been far-reaching and demonstrates that improving diversity and inclusion through alliances benefits the entire corporation. It has created a culture of authenticity and honesty that permeates relationships among women of color and peers and managers, calls attention to the unique experiences and needs of working women of color, and showcases workplace dynamics and solutions related to the intersection of gender and race.”