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The first way I try to show my feminism is with the things I buy and wear. The picture I uploaded is the exact same pin I purchased from Hot Topic a couple months ago to put on my bulletin board in my dorm room. The next way I use my feminism is to empower other women. This year, on March 8th it was International Women's Day. I decided to make an instagram story posting pictures and captions with all of the amazing women I have in my life, and encouraged others to do the same. All of the girls in my post that have instagram LOVED IT and it made me so happy that they were happy for being recognized as someone influential in someone's life (mine). Another way I try and use my feminism ideals for good is by changing my mindset. I, like many people, are so quick to judge and often say negative things about people we don't like by saying awful things about how they look or act or what they wear. So I've recently decided to stop calling girls I don't like "ugly" or a "slut" and just try and remind myself that I can't just support and encourage the women I like. That's not being a good feminist. Lastly, I try and speak up for what I believe is right, even if it goes against what my peers and family believe. I also like to listen to counterarguments for what I see as right and try and show them why I think my way too. I don't like to fight over different values and morals, just try to bridge the gap between the two sides. Usually these things involve politics, but it can really be any topic me and another person don't see eye to eye on.

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Here at YW Boston, intersectionality is central to the work we do.

We know that everyone reading this has come to follow YW Boston's work from different entry points. Some of us hold female empowerment close to heart, perhaps seeking a more equitable world for ourselves or our daughters. Some of us have experienced racial discrimination personally, perhaps through generations of our family. Some of us have little experience with social justice, but seek a better understanding of inequity in Greater Boston. All of us seek change in our community, no matter how we became involved.

Despite our shared vision, social equity work can oftentimes feel exclusionary to those who are not familiar with the lingo. Intersectionality, in particular, is a term that many people and organizations assert an importance for, but that others are unclear on. Understanding the terminology used in equity work is a useful tool for people expanding their knowledge on the issues they care about.

If you've ever scratched your head when a friend, colleague, or writer has spoken of intersectionality (or you'd like to deepen your understanding of the theory), this post is for you.

What is it and where does it come from?

Intersectionality, n.

The interconnected nature of social categorizations such as race, class, and gender, regarded as creating overlapping and interdependent systems of discrimination or disadvantage; a theoretical approach based on such a premise. (Oxford Dictionary)

Intersectionality is a framework for conceptualizing a person, group of people, or social problem as affected by a number of discriminations and disadvantages. It takes into account people's overlapping identities and experiences in order to understand the complexity of prejudices they face.

In other words, intersectional theory asserts that people are often disadvantaged by multiple sources of oppression: their race, class, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, and other identity markers. Intersectionality recognizes that identity markers (e.g. "female" and "black") do not exist independently of each other, and that each informs the others, often creating a complex convergence of oppression. For instance, a black man and a white woman make $0.74 and $0.78 to a white man's dollar, respectively. Black women, faced with multiple forms of oppression, only make $0.64. Understanding intersectionality is essential to combatting the interwoven prejudices people face in their daily lives.

Kimberlé Crenshaw, law professor and social theorist, first coined the term intersectionality in her 1989 paper "Demarginalizing The Intersection Of Race And Sex: A Black Feminist Critique Of Antidiscrimination Doctrine, Feminist Theory And Antiracist Politics." The theory emerged two decades earlier, however, when black feminists began to speak out about the white, middle-class nature of the mainstream feminist movement. Many black women found it difficult to identify with the issues of the mainstream (white) feminist movement, issues such as the pressure to be a homemaker. Black women, who often had to work in order to keep their family afloat and therefore did not have the luxury of being homemakers, did not feel as though these issues pertained to their experiences. At the same time, many black women experienced sexism while participating in the Civil Rights movement and were often shut out of leadership positions. This intersectional experience of facing racism in the feminist movement and sexism in civil rights encouraged black women to call for a feminist practice that centralized their lived experiences.

The Combahee River Collective, a black feminist lesbian organization, released the Combahee River Collective Statement in 1978 to define and encourage black feminism. In the introduction these women state that "The synthesis of these oppressions creates the conditions of our lives. As Black women we see Black feminism as the logical political movement to combat the manifold and simultaneous oppressions that all women of color face." They fought not only for representation in both the Civil Rights and feminist movements, but also for recognition as black women, rather than just black or just female individuals.

Crenshaw expanded on the Collective's theory, stating that in order to understand the oppression of black women, it is necessary to look at the intersection of blackness and womanhood. While many who championed intersectionality early on were African American women, the theory has proven necessary to understanding a wide range of difference, including individuals' sexual orientation, age, class, disability, and more.

Nowadays, intersectionality is considered crucial to social equity work. Activists and community organizations are calling for and participating in more dynamic conversations about the differences in experience among people with different overlapping identities. Without an intersectional lens, events and movements that aim to address injustice towards one group may end up perpetuating systems of inequities towards other groups. Intersectionality fully informs YW Boston's work, by encouraging nuanced conversations around inequity in Boston. It enlightens us to health disparities among women of color, provides pathways for our youth leaders to understand identity, and is crucial to the advocacy work we support.

What can I do?

Intersectionality may seem theoretical, but it is meant to be utilized. No matter how or when you have become involved with equity work, it is always possible to more fully integrate intersectionality into your view of these issues.

Is your work toward social equity intersectional? Check out these tips and reflect:

Recognize difference.

Oftentimes, it is easier to believe and to explain to others that "all women feel" a certain way or that "LGBTQ+ people believe" some common understanding, but this does not reflect reality. We must recognize that all unique experiences of identity, and particularly ones that involve multiple overlapping oppressions, are valid.

Do not shy away from recognizing that people experience the world differently based on their overlapping identity markers. Because of the way we have been socialized to continue feeding systems of oppression, we often feel it is rude to formally recognize others' difference. We see this in how people are uncomfortable naming another person's perceived race or asking for someone's preferred pronouns. However, we must recognize these identities as a way to step beyond our assumptions that our experience is common. One way of doing so is when you attend rallies, take a look at the signs that others hold - how do they assert their identity and how does this inform the issues they care most about?

Avoid oversimplified language.

Once we recognize this difference, we can move away from language that seeks to define people by a singular identity. You may have heard after the Women's March that many trans folks and allies felt uncomfortable with the vagina-centric themes of the march. Assuming that all women have vaginas or are defined by their bodies is an oversimplification that erases the experiences of those who exist beyond the gender binary. By avoiding language that assumes our own experiences are baseline, we can open ourselves up to listening to others' points of view.

Analyze the space you occupy.

Becoming comfortable recognizing difference also involves recognizing when that difference is not represented in the spaces you occupy. Diversity of all kinds matter in your workplace, your activism, your community spaces, and more. If you are meeting with a local LGBTQ+ organization, is there representation of LGBTQ+ people of color? You may feel that your workplace is racially and ethnically diverse, but is it accessible to people with disabilities? Take note of the welcoming or distancing practices of the spaces you frequent.

Seek other points of view.

Explore the narratives of those with different interlocking identities than you. This includes surrounding yourself with others with differing interwoven identities, but keep in mind that oftentimes, even when you have a diverse group of people in an activist space, it falls on people to educate others about the oppressions they face. When these people share their experiences, take the opportunity to listen. However, do not expect people with identity markers other than your own to be there or to want to educate others. In your own time, seek out existing intersectional narratives, from your podcasts to your television. If you are unsure about a concept or want to learn more about a specific intersection of identity, Google it! This will help you be better prepared to enter into conversations with others and progress together.

Show up.

Do not expect people who face different systems of oppression than you to rally for causes you care about if you do not rally for theirs. As you hear about issues others face, learn about the work that is currently being done around these topics. Listen and defer to those who live with these intersectional identities each day. As you do, you will likely deepen your understanding of your own identity and the subjects you care about most.

Additional Resources:

Check out this TED talk by Kimberlé Crenshaw (who coined the term "intersectionality").

On your quest for more intersectional viewpoints, check out this list of podcasts.

Listen to women share their thoughts on intersectionality here and here.

To learn more about YW Boston's intersectional work, please sign up for our newsletter:

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What is intersectionality, and what does it have to do with me? - YW Boston

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Here at YW Boston, intersectionality is central to the work we do. We know that everyone reading this has come to follow YW Boston's work from different entry points. Some of us hold female empowerment close to heart, perhaps seeking a more equitable world for ourselves or our daughters.

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The first article I found talked about who named "intersectionality" and more about what it means to everyone. I thought it was extremely shocking that Crenshaw made this term in 1989. That is not very long ago! That's so crazy, but again makes sense that around that time in our "history" that this term would become increasingly beneficial to describe the wide range of feminists. Next I found a diagram of factors that influence someone's goals for feminism. There's so much more to it then just "race, class, gender." This wheel gives a good picture of things that could influence you that you don't think, and things that influence others that don't pertain to you. My third link is a statement Flavia Dzodan said. It's simple but very powerful. I read it and I stopped and was like "are my views bullshit?" Not that I'm not for intersectionality, but I've never heard about it until this class. It has definitely made me rethink a lot of things to be more inclusive. Next is a gif I found. Talking about intersectionality feminism has positively impacted me as a feminist, and I cannot wait to spread girl power, confidence, self worth and love to EVERYONE!!

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Number of marriages: 2,015,603 Marriage rate: 6.1 per 1,000 total population Number of divorces: 746,971 (45 reporting States and D.C.) Divorce rate: 2.7 per 1,000 population (45 reporting States and D.C.) Sources: National Marriage and Divorce Rate Trends pdf icon [PDF - 48 KB] (data shown are provisional 2019)

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First, for my own privilege is being white. It's something I take for granted everyday. I chose a meme to bring some humor to the whole topic, but in all reality it is very true. Even in 2018 there is still a very large racial divide. Another privilege I've really come to acknowledge and respect this year is having married parents that love me and support me through everything in my life. I've seen first hand how having divorced parents that are not on good terms effects the child and it is SO SAD. Another privilege I have is being able to drive and having my own vehicle. It's so nice not to have to depend on others to get me places. Just having a drivers license in general is something many women in other countries can't get, and many teens and adults in America can't drive due to a number of reasons. The last privilege I have listed is being a student at NDSU. Even though now it's the standard of going to a four year university and getting a degree, it's still something not everyone gets to do. More importantly, the financial side of my education isn't a problem either, which is also something very important I don't always think of.

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https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/sexist-school-dress-codes-and-the-oregon-now-model_us_59a6cd7ee4b00795c2a318e5

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https://www.ae.com/featured-aeriereal/aerie/s-cms/6890055?icid=Aerie:HP:Sec5:Aerie:RoleModels:MeetourRoleModels

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A stay-at-home dad is a father who is the main caregiver of the children and is generally the homemaker of the household. As families have evolved, the practice of being a stay-at-home dad has become more common and socially acceptable.

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Something I believe that has changed A LOT since the beginning of the idea of "feminism" is that women orgasms are important too! Sex isn't just meant to reproduce (for us humans) and I'm very proud of all the movements and resources that has made this common knowledge and something now that is seen as important (hence my link to Cosmo). Next is the Google definition for a "stay-at-home dad." This is something else I believe has evolved for the better. I love that it is becoming more socially acceptable for the father to stay at home and do more of the once seen as "woman's work" and that the mother can be the one who "provides for the family." I believe that it's not gender that decides what we would be better at, but our own personalities and sometimes in a relationship men are better at the house chores than women are, and that okay! My next link is to American Eagle's "Aerie" brand's new movement for loving your body no matter what it looks like. I've always felt like the skinnier the girl, the prettier she once. It's so sad and so NOT TRUE. Everyone is beautiful, and honestly a pretty personality is what really matters. All of this is so cliche I feel like but it's good to hear it over and over again! Last but certainly mist important, school dress codes. I feel like they are still directed at girls and have the underlying meaning that "your body is only seen for sexual use." Which I hate. Not only does this teach boys that they can think of girls like that and not be told that's wrong, but schools tell girls that's wrong for them. I think it has lead to the increase in the idea that "if a girl goes to a party dressed like a 'slut' she wants to be taken advantage of." What I wear is not an invite for you to penetrate me!! If this philosophy changes at the root of the problem, I really think a change in sexual violence will begin as well.

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Best Sex Positions and Kama Sutra Tips - Hot and Fun Sex Positions | Cosmopolitan

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Climb on top of your cutie and take control with these sizzling sex positions, complete with steamy illustrations and step-by-step instructions.

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Ten Historic Female Scientists You Should Know

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Before Marie Curie, these women dedicated their lives to science and made significant advances

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15 women leading the way for girls' education

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In celebration of International Women's Day, we're honoring 15 women who are using their voices, leadership and influence to make progress for girls' education globally.

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Let me first start with the "My Girl Crushes" PDF. I made this a few months ago when I was in a rut and school was kicking my butt. I put together this document with all of the famous women who inspire me in one way or another (sorry for the language). I made it to look back at whenever I was feeling down to remind myself of all these ladies that worked hard to get where they're at and how lucky I am to have them as role models, and that someday, I too, will be some girl's role model. The "Empowerment" link is a write up from several different women stating what empowering other women means to them. I feel very strongly for the "Girls Supporting Girls" motto. Then it's the "EDUCATION FOR ALL" link to 15 women making a difference for education. I want to be a teacher someday, and it breaks my heart when I read things about girls not getting the education everyone deserves, and again women role models are really important to me! Following that is the "Women of Science" box with an explanation of 10 famous women who had an impact on science. I love science and seeing that these women not only overcame the gender inequalities of their time, but also were amazing at science!!!

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It's time to raise awareness around new initiatives women are taking to help their female counterparts achieve their goals and feel empowered. The concept of women helping other women benefits both parties, while demonstrating just how powerful a force females can be when they support one another.

Four women in particular are going the extra mile to encourage females everywhere to pursue their dreams. Here is what these women are doing to support their peers.
Sheryl Sandberg - "Together Women Can"
Facebook executive and Founder of LeanIn.Org, Sheryl Sandberg, recently launched " Together Women Can," a new campaign aimed at encouraging women to be mentors and powerful allies for other women in the workplace. During her exclusive interview with ABC news, Sandberg mentioned that there are small changes that can be made in the workplace that will allow women to help their female counterparts.

For example, acknowledging the work of a female colleague can help women shine a light on their peer's professional efforts. Standing up for a woman coworker can also help her voice be heard throughout an organization. For instance, if your coworker was interrupted during a marketing pitch, you could politely say that she was not done with her presentation. Small changes such as these make a big difference for women in the workplace.

"So many women are lending their voices to this campaign because they have benefited firsthand from the support of other women and know what a difference it can make," explains Sandberg. "When women work together, we accomplish amazing things."

To participate in the campaign, women are encouraged to celebrate the women who #LeanInTogether with them on social media or to post "Together women accomplish amazing things using the hashtag: #LeanInTogether."
Arianna Huffington - "A Great Role Model"
Not only has Arianna Huffington created a platform that has allowed myself and many other women (and men) to have our voices heard, she is also a big supporter of "leaning in" and having women help each other succeed.

Sheryl Sandberg recently interviewed Arianna Huffington, asking what advice she would offer for women wanting to lean in and make a difference. Arianna explained that women have to lead the way in changing how workplaces are structured. This shouldn't be done by "outdoing" men in terms of success, yet should be accomplished by taking time to "lean back" and be ourselves in order to advance. Getting enough sleep, taking care of oneself and listening to your intuition can help women find their own voice to empower themselves and others in the workplace.
Christian Vera - "Empowering Ourselves and Each Other"
Christian Vera is the perfect example of a woman who has worked her way to the top through motivation and asking others for help. The Famous Actress and TV Host of ABC's viral videos program, RightThisMinute, moved to Los Angeles on a whim and found success along the way. It was only a matter of time before Christian became a reporter, host for E! News Now and a red-carpet correspondent at the Grammys.

Christian recently spoke at a "Hacking Gender Equality" event held in San Francisco, which was hosted by the founders of Life Hacking San Francisco, Clayton Wood and Amanda Craven. During this inspiring gathering, Christian shared her advice and life experiences that helped her achieve success.

"Find role models whom you identify with. Many women throughout the years have inspired me. Perhaps the one I identify with the most is Nely Galan. She was the first person I ever heard say, 'be your own prince charming!' I loved this because that is how I had felt my entire life. Find people whom you admire in your own communities and ask if they'll act as your mentors. Mentors will be a key to your success because they can provide advice and knowledge based on their own trials and tribulations, "Christian said.

Christian also spoke about the need for women to stop comparing themselves to other women.

"I think it's so important that women stop making comparisons amongst themselves. I've seen social media posts that say something along the lines of, 'real women have curves, are skinny, have muscles, ride horses, etc...' But we are ALL real women and we have to start appreciating ourselves exactly as we are. We all have something unique to bring to the table. Can you imagine a world in which we use our strengths to empower ourselves and our communities," Christian noted during her presentation.

Christian Vera speaking in San Francisco. Photo Credit, Larry Wong
Crystal Valentine - "Changing The Gender Gap in Computer Science"
Crystal Valentine is the Vice President of Technology Strategy at MapR Technologies and a tenure-track professor in the Department of Computer Science at Amherst College. She is extremely familiar with the notion that women should encourage other women to pursue their goals.

Crystal explained that she is optimistic for the possibility of change in today's gender gap, especially when it comes to getting more women involved in the big data sector and computer science field.

"Over the past two years at Amherst College, I was the only female professor in my department. My colleagues and I decided to implement a simple strategy for changing the perception women had of computer science. Research shows that women mainly opt out of computer science because it is perceived as being hard or boring, and there are never as many women present in the classes as there are men. In order to make computer science more appealing for women, we decided to streamline and separate the students who have experience from those who were just beginning. This made computer science more approachable for entry-level students. We also changed the assignments to be more appealing, allowing students to choose from programs in different application areas, ranging from computational biology to sports analytics, so the material was more engaging. Finally, Amherst College made an institutional commitment to support a student trip to the Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing," Crystal said.

The subtle changes that Crystal and her colleagues implemented at Amherst College have already made an impact. As a result, more than 50 percent of the students pre-registered for their computer science courses are women (there are now more women than men signed up). In this case, a little encouragement from a leading female figure goes a long way.

Crystal Valentine pictured with Amherst College student, Evelyn Ting
Women Are Key For Empowering Women
Each of the women mentioned above are taking steps that demonstrate just how powerful women can be when they join forces. I hope that in future there will be more women voicing their opinions in the workplace, in academia, during social events and in other ways that will encourage females to follow their passions and voice their opinions by supporting one another.

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Why Women Are Key For Empowering Other Women

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It's time to raise awareness around new initiatives women are taking to help their female counterparts achieve their goals and feel empowered. The concept of women helping other women benefits both parties, while demonstrating just how powerful a force females can be when they support one another.