intersectionality [or intersectionalism] : the study of intersections between forms or systems of oppression, domination or discrimination.
The more I discussed intersectionality, the more I realized how important it is. The system barriers are so real. People think that it’s just an excuse. It is not. Just because the barrier isn’t there for you doesn’t mean it is non-existent. As an able-bodied person, a barrier is not there for me. As a Deaf person, a barrier is up. As a womxn, another barrier is up. As a POC (person of color), another barrier is up. As a sighted person, a barrier isn’t there for me. There are so many identities, more than we realize. The more I understand intersectionality, the better I get at recognizing the system barriers. The better I get at recognizing the system barriers; the higher chances I have at breaking them down for myself personally. As a community, it is going to take time because it requires a WHOLE community effort to understand intersectionality. I believe that intersectionality is our answer to break the system barriers down. It is time for people to be honest with themselves and take themselves out of color blindness…recognize your own privileges, and biases….recognize your complex identities. Together, we can create a better future. A true equality that every single person has dreamed of.
© Leang Ngov Finding My Light, 2015