7
Intersectional Feminist Practices
When
Kimberly Crenshaw introduced the idea of intersectionality in 1989, it had a
significant influence, especially in upsetting a culture that was blind to the
way that a person's multiple identities may expose them to irrational
oppression and discrimination. Although there is a lot of misinformation about
the embarrassing situations that individuals of many communities have to deal
with, it is not made public. This includes media, journalists, and social justice
activists.
The
idea of intersectionality in feminism has recently attracted a lot of interest,
and many individuals are working to understand it better in order to recognise
the suffering that women experience as a result of intersecting factors like
gender and race. However, simply looking at historical examples of
intersectional discrimination will not make it disappear from society or from
the minds of the privileged groups who engage in this practice of marginalising
people who are diverse in overlapping ways. In order to make a concerted
attempt to entirely eradicate this evil from society, it is crucial to put the
idea of intersectional feminism into reality, and that too with the goal of
aiding those who have been suffering from unfathomable tyranny for years.
The
following seven actions can be taken to think about and put the idea of
intersectional feminism into practice:
Be
a non-aggressive listener.
Reaching
out to someone who has experienced discrimination or abuse requires taking a
non-combative attitude and gently nudging them with empathy so that they will
open up about the tribulations they have endured. It could be difficult to
accept if the debate reveals that you were anyway responsible for this cruelty.
It is imperative to stick with the conversation and do a deep evaluation of the
circumstance, regardless of how uncomfortable it becomes. Allowing someone to
express themselves fully and giving them enough time to do so is important
since it can be challenging to talk about topics that are hard to put into
words.
Recognize
the difficulties
It
is crucial to empathising with the suffering the individual has gone through
when they are ready to discuss their numerous experiences of being marginalised
due to overlapping factors like a different sexual orientation, racial
background, nationality, or economic status quo. Talking to someone who has had
experiences in this area may make it more challenging to define intersectional
feminism exactly because it is rather vague, particularly in terms of its
application and definition. But it's important to recognise and record the
extent of their challenges.
Make
use of your privilege
It
is important to realise that your personal experiences with intersectional
discrimination—or lack thereof—can be a powerful tool in the struggle for
individuals who have been persistently persecuted on the basis of race, gender,
culture, and other factors. Being a woman is a privilege in and of itself, one
that, when enhanced by sincere feminism, can aid in advancing the causes of
others who have been subjected to prejudice. It will be simple to take on the
role of these victims' voices, whose flight goes unreported and unheard by
society's orthodoxy and bigotry.
Speak
out more about the injustice
It
cannot be denied that occasionally a few words can destroy a whole kingdom in
situations where powerful weaponry was ineffective. If these words are spoken
in the appropriate setting at the appropriate moment, they will undoubtedly
have a profound effect that can aid in resolving the problems associated with
intersectional prejudice. Making a strong manifesto out of your voice that is
sure to break through society's self-imposed ignorance of women's struggles is
the best example of intersectional feminism in action.
Create
an inclusive viewpoint
There
is an opportunity to include the perspectives of those nearby who may or may
not have shared historical experiences of discrimination once a voice is raised
against an injustice once meted out to women from the feminist point of view,
specifically focusing on the obscure concept of intersectional discrimination.
To launch a realistic movement based on intersectional feminism's beliefs and
leave a lasting impression, it is crucial to have an inclusive attitude toward
each of these perspectives.
Implement
cooperative changes
The
concept of intersectionality needs to be addressed in the many workplaces or
social organisations where cross-community, cross-issue, and cross-sector
partnerships can be encouraged. Social activists, cultural workers, attorneys,
academics, and social advocates can help establish socio-political agendas so
that a revolutionary change can be brought in to emancipate women from the
long-standing discriminatory views of society.
Be
reliable.
It
is likely that taking the initiative to demonstrate the principles of
intersectional feminism in action will not be simple, and there may be
obstacles along the way. But despite all the criticism, it's crucial to stand
your ground and respond with arguments that make sense and are motivated by a
desire to improve society for women and all its members.