Intersectionality: Examining the Interconnectedness of Diversity in College
Introduction
In recent years, diversity has become an increasingly important topic in college campuses across the country. However, simply talking about diversity is not enough. It is important to understand the complex nature of diversity and the ways in which different forms of oppression intersect with each other. This is where intersectionality comes into play. In this article, we will be examining the interconnectedness of diversity in college and the importance of understanding intersectionality.
What is Intersectionality?
Intersectionality is the understanding that different forms of oppression, such as racism, sexism, ableism, and classism, intersect with each other. This means that individuals who face multiple forms of oppression, such as being a woman of color or a disabled person from a low-income family, have unique experiences that cannot be understood by looking at each form of oppression separately.
Intersectionality was first coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, a legal scholar who was studying the experiences of Black women in the legal system. Crenshaw argued that the experiences of Black women could not be understood by looking solely at either their race or gender, but that the two intersected with each other and created a unique experience of oppression.
Why is Intersectionality Important in College?
College campuses are often seen as places of diversity and inclusion, but the reality is that they can also be sites of oppression and exclusion. In order to truly create a diverse and inclusive environment, it is important to understand the ways in which different forms of oppression intersect with each other.
For example, a college may have a diverse student body that includes students from different racial and ethnic backgrounds. However, if the campus is not accessible to students with disabilities or if students from low-income families do not have access to resources such as financial aid or academic support, then the college is not truly inclusive. Understanding intersectionality can help colleges create policies and practices that take into account the different experiences of their students.
Examples of Intersectionality in College
One example of intersectionality in college can be seen in the experiences of LGBTQ+ students of color. These students may face discrimination not only based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, but also based on their race or ethnicity. This means that their experiences of oppression are different from those of either LGBTQ+ students or students of color alone.
Another example is the experiences of first-generation college students who are also members of underrepresented racial or ethnic groups. These students may face challenges related not only to their socio-economic background, but also to their race or ethnicity. This means that colleges need to take into account the unique experiences of first-generation college students who come from diverse backgrounds.
Challenges to Understanding Intersectionality in College
Understanding intersectionality can be challenging, especially for those who have not experienced multiple forms of oppression themselves. It can be easy to focus on one form of oppression, such as racism, while ignoring the ways in which it intersects with other forms of oppression such as sexism or ableism.
Another challenge is the tendency to view diversity as a goal to be achieved rather than a process that requires ongoing work. Colleges may hire a diverse faculty or enroll a diverse student body, but if they do not actively work to create an inclusive environment, then they are not truly promoting diversity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding intersectionality is critical in creating a truly diverse and inclusive college environment. By recognizing the ways in which different forms of oppression intersect with each other, colleges can create policies and practices that take into account the unique experiences of their students. However, achieving true diversity and inclusivity requires ongoing work and a commitment to understanding and addressing the complexities of intersectionality.