What is intersectional feminism? Explanation, history and books about it

Intersectional feminism is an approach to feminism that recognizes that forms of oppression and discrimination intertwine and intersect, and that women's experiences differ based on their race, social class, sexual orientation, gender identity, and other characteristics. It was coined by law professor Kimberlé Crenshaw in the 1980s and has become an important theory and practice within the feminist movement.

What is intersectional feminism about?

Intersectional feminism critiques the idea that all women share the same experiences of oppression and struggle, and highlights the importance of considering multiple axes of oppression and privilege. It recognizes that women are not a homogeneous group and that the forms of oppression they face are different and intertwined with other forms of discrimination.

This approach recognizes that sexism and gender inequality are interconnected with racism, xenophobia, homophobia, transphobia, class discrimination and other forms of oppression. We take this opportunity for you to enter this link if you have not known about lesbian feminism .

Therefore, she advocates for a more inclusive and encompassing vision of feminism that considers and addresses these intersections.

Intersectional feminism also focuses on the experiences and voices of women who have been historically marginalized and excluded from mainstream feminist discourse.

Recognizes that Black women, Indigenous women, transgender women, women with disabilities, and other women from marginalized groups face unique forms of oppression and discrimination that cannot be separated from their gender identity.

Furthermore, it seeks not only to analyze forms of oppression, but also to address them and fight for social justice and equality for all women. It recognizes the importance of building alliances and solidarity between different groups and movements to confront multiple forms of oppression effectively.

Do you know the history of intersectional feminism?

Intersectional feminism emerges as a current within the feminist movement that recognizes the existence of multiple oppressions that progress women simultaneously and that intersect with other axes of discrimination such as race, social class, sexual orientation, age, capacity, among others.

• You may be interested in: Black feminism: what is it and how does it differ from other currents of the genre?

This feminist current seeks to give voice to those women who have been historically excluded from the movement and who have been victims of intersectional oppressions, understanding that gender oppression is not the only form of oppression that women face.

In addition, it seeks to understand and make visible the different ways in which patriarchy and other forms of discrimination against women with different identities.

The theory of intersectional feminism has its roots in the work of black feminists such as Kimberlé Crenshaw, who coined the term in 1989.

Crenshaw raised the idea that women who experience multiple forms of oppression, such as racism, sexism, sexual orientation discrimination, or poverty, face unique challenges that cannot be effectively addressed through a traditional feminist approach.

This approach recognizes that sexism and gender oppression intersect with other forms of discrimination, and that to achieve true equality it is necessary to address all these forms of oppression together.

By recognizing the intersection between multiple forms of discrimination, intersectional feminism seeks to be a broader and more inclusive current of feminism that recognizes and fights for the dignity and rights of all women, including those who have historically been ignored or excluded from traditional feminist discourse. .

This term continues to be an evolving theory and practice and has generated important debates around inclusion, diversity, and the fight against multiple oppression. Despite this, it remains a vital current in the fight for gender equality. and social justice around the world.

Generally speaking, intersectional feminism is based on the premise that women are not a homogeneous group and that their experiences of oppression are influenced by their race, social class, gender identity, sexual orientation, and other factors.

Intersectional Feminism: Books That Inspire and Empower

In recent years, intersectional feminism has gained prominence in academic, political, and cultural discourses.

As a result, a plethora of books have emerged to explore and analyze this powerful movement. In this part, we will examine some of the most influential and insightful books on intersectional feminism, which not only inform, but also inspire and empower their readers. We also invite you to read 15 feminist books that we should all read and understand .

1. "In the country of the white cloud"

The book "In the Land of the White Cloud" by Sarah Lark is a historical novel that tells the story of two women, Helen and Gwyneira, who in the 19th century decided to emigrate to New Zealand from their respective countries, England and Wales.

Both women have in common the desire to marry and start a family in distant and unexplored lands.

The novel immerses us in the era of colonization of New Zealand, in which the European settlers confront the Maori culture and the fight for the sovereignty of the territory.

It is a story in which the description of the landscapes, customs and living conditions of the time are very important, and allow us to understand the difficult situation that the colonists and indigenous peoples faced in their time.

As for the characters, the novel is very rich in nuances and details, and allows us to know in depth the different motivations that drive each of them.

The author also addresses topics such as friendship, racism, the role of women in the society of the time, as well as overcoming different tests and difficulties.

2. "This bridge, my back: Voices of third world women in the United States" by Cherríe Moraga and Gloria Anzaldúa

It is an anthology of essays written by women of color that address issues such as identity, oppression, and the struggle for liberation both in the United States and elsewhere around the world.

The book presents a unique and under-seen perspective on feminism, often ignored in the movement's mainstream narrative.

In their essays, the writers explore and question the limiting stereotypes and representations to which women of color are often subjected.

The essays also show how the intersection of race, class, sexuality, and other aspects of identity influence women's oppression and liberation.

3. "Patriarchal capitalism" by Silvia Federici

The book "Patriarchal Capitalism" by Silvia Federici is an important work in the field of feminist studies.

In this book, Federici examines how capitalism and patriarchy are interconnected and how together they have been fundamental to the exploitation and oppression of women throughout history.

The author argues that capitalism has historically depended on the gratuitous exploitation of women's labor, especially in the home and caring for the family.

Furthermore, Federici argues that patriarchy is inherent to capitalism, because in a capitalist economy unpaid work performed mostly by women is often undervalued and not seen as productive work.

4. "Race, patriarchy and sustainable development: An intersectional approach to women's rights" by Ana C. Dinerstein

Ana C. Dinerstein examines how the intersection of race, gender, and social class influence access to resources and environmental justice for women.

The author argues that women are often the most affected by environmental degradation and lack of access to natural resources, and that capitalism and patriarchy are instrumental in perpetuating these inequalities.

In this book, Dinerstein challenges the idea that sustainable development can be achieved simply through a technical approach and proposes an intersectional approach that takes into account the particular reality and needs of women.

5. "Bad Feminist" by Roxane Gay

The play centers on the idea that we should not be limited by our preconceived ideas about what it means to be a good or bad feminist.

Instead, we should celebrate our contradictions and embrace our imperfections. The book also explores topics such as racial discrimination, sexual violence and the representation of women in the media.

We could say that "Bad Feminist" is an important and insightful book that challenges preconceived ideas about what it means to be a feminist and encourages us to embrace our contradictions and fight for social justice. You can make a change by promoting simple actions to fight against inequality. Take a look here .

Advances and contributions of intersectional feminism

Intersectional feminism has been instrumental in expanding the feminist agenda and ensuring that the experiences and needs of all women are addressed, especially those who have been historically marginalized. This approach has led to important advances in various areas.

In academia, she has promoted the incorporation of new perspectives and diverse voices in gender studies. It has challenged prevailing assumptions and promoted a deeper understanding of the intersections between gender, race, class, and other axes of oppression.

In activism, this trend helps build stronger coalitions and amplify the voices of marginalized women.

She promotes the inclusion of women from different backgrounds and has addressed issues such as gender violence, reproductive justice, access to education, and equal pay from an intersectional perspective.

It also influences public policy formulation, has highlighted the importance of addressing structural inequalities and has promoted the adoption of inclusive approaches in decision-making.

It drives the implementation of policies that address the specific needs of women belonging to diverse communities and has challenged oppressive norms and practices.

Challenges and the way forward

Although intersectional feminism has made significant progress, it still faces significant challenges.

According to this movement, the resistance of patriarchal and oppressive systems often hinders progress towards equality. Furthermore, the lack of inclusion and recognition within the feminist movement itself is a persistent problem that must be addressed.

To advance the fight for social justice, intersectional feminism must continue to promote collaboration and solidarity between different groups and movements. It is essential that the voices of marginalized women are heard and valued and that their needs are effectively addressed. From here we leave you this link so that you can differentiate between equality and gender equity .

Likewise, it is important that intersectional feminism continues to challenge oppressive structures and systems at all levels: from personal relationships to government policies.

Education, awareness and mobilization are essential tools to generate lasting changes and build a more equal future.

Intersectional feminism has left an indelible mark in the fight for gender equality and social justice. Her inclusive approach and recognition of multiple forms of oppression have challenged dominant narratives and expanded the vision of the feminist movement.

As we continue to move forward, it is essential that we continue to support and strengthen intersectional feminism, working together to build a more equitable and just world for all people.

These articles may also interest you:

• What is feminism? Where was it created? Learn about its history, birth, precursors and its importance
• 12 examples of feminism, characteristics and how they are applied in 2023
• What is radical feminism? Is it a current with many followers? Explanation and history
• What is ecofeminism? Theory, characteristics and history
• Black feminism: what is it and how does it differ from other currents of the genre?

Find your perfect ally in our menstruation panties

Click and choose comfort