The concept of intersectionality is critical in understanding the multifaceted nature of oppression. This paper summarizes the main ideas and arguments from the course materials on women’s and gender studies. Primarily, it focuses on the concept of intersectionality, which examines how different forms of oppression and discrimination intersect and affect women of color. Following this summary, I will also reflect on how these issues are relevant to my personal life and experiences. Intersectionality is a crucial framework for understanding and addressing the multiple and interlocking forms of oppression and violence that women of color and those from indigenous communities face in their daily lives.
Summary
Crenshaw’s work, published in the Stanford Law Review (1991), examines the intersecting forms of oppression faced by women of color. She argues that traditional feminist and antiracist discourses have failed to capture the unique experiences of these women, who endure simultaneous racial and gender-based discrimination (Crenshaw, 1991). Crenshaw’s concept of intersectionality highlights how these overlapping identities create a unique dimension of oppression not entirely addressed by existing social justice frameworks. This aspect stresses the necessity for more nuanced approaches in social justice efforts that account for the complex interplay of multiple identity factors.
In the podcast episode by Anna Maria Tremonti, various perspectives were explored on the significance of featuring women in the US and Canada’s currency. The episode highlighted the decision to place Harriet Tubman on the US $20 bill, emphasizing its symbolic value in honoring her role as an abolitionist and challenging historical narratives (Tremonti, 2016). However, the discussion also acknowledged criticisms, particularly about the potential of such symbolism to obscure ongoing systemic issues marginalized groups face (Tremonti, 2016). This debate extends to the Canadian context, where the choice of which woman to feature on currency sparked discussions on historical representation and the complexities of intersectional identities. These conversations resonate with Kimberlé Crenshaw’s intersectional framework by illustrating how symbolic gestures, such as representation on currency, intersect with deeper societal issues of race, gender, and economic disparity.
The class discussion further contextualized these ideas through contemporary examples, such as the 2015 initiative in Canada to remove the tax on feminine products. This action acknowledges the financial burden disproportionately placed on women, aligning with Crenshaw’s intersectional analysis by highlighting how economic policies can differentially impact marginalized groups. The discussion on the ‘pink tax’ and unfair pricing practices, such as those seen in products marketed to women being 50% more expensive on average, highlights how gender-based economic disparities persist. Moreover, the class discussion touched upon the efforts in California to combat the pink tax, exemplifying active resistance against gendered economic injustice (Class Notes, 2024). This perspective aligns with Crenshaw’s advocacy for intersectional awareness in policymaking and societal attitudes. The inclusion of women in currency, as discussed in Tremonti’s podcast, further exemplifies these points, highlighting the symbolic and practical implications of representation in challenging entrenched gender biases. The discussion also noted ongoing research in Canada regarding the pink tax, indicating a growing acknowledgment of these systemic issues.Top of Form
Reflection
Reflecting on the materials, I recognize the profound impact intersectionality has in unraveling the complexity of oppression. Chiefly, Kimberlé Crenshaw’s intersectionality framework shows the intricacies of race, gender, and economic status, profoundly enriching our perspective on social justice. The insights from the podcast and class discussions serve as tangible examples of how theoretical concepts manifest in real-world scenarios. For instance, the discussion about the ‘pink tax’ reminds me of multiple times I have bought products on Amazon and could not understand why those targeted at women are, in most cases, priced higher than those of men. While some researchers, such as Moshary et al. (2023), show that there are times when women’s products tend to be significantly cheaper than male versions, this perspective demonstrates that organizations still incorporate activities that subtly reinforce gender inequality in our society. Thus, I would argue that symbolic actions, such as the inclusion of women in currency, can carry significant weight in challenging deep-seated societal biases and structures.
On a personal level, these discussions have been transformative in reshaping my understanding of social dynamics. Recognizing the multi-layered nature of oppression compels me to empathize with and appreciate the varied experiences of those around me, particularly individuals grappling with intersecting forms of discrimination. This newfound awareness has spurred a more critical and introspective stance toward societal structures and policies. Chiefly, it prompts me to continuously question the beneficiaries of these systems and consider the hidden costs borne by marginalized communities. Moreover, this learning journey has instilled in me a sense of responsibility to actively engage in discussions and actions that advocate for a more equitable and inclusive society.
Conclusion
The exploration of intersectionality through Crenshaw’s work, alongside the practical insights from the podcast and class discussions, provides a comprehensive understanding of the nuanced nature of oppression. Notably, it emphasizes the importance of considering multiple and intersecting identities in addressing social injustices. These discussions have broadened the academic discourse and offered profound personal insights into the realities of marginalized communities. Based on these perspectives, I feel that we must continue with this conversation as we strive for a more equitable society, regardless of how uncomfortable it might be. Primarily, we must recognize that the path to social justice is intertwined with the need to understand and address the complexities of intersectionality.
References
Class Notes (2024).
Crenshaw, K. (1991). Mapping the margins: Intersectionality, identity politics, and violence against women of color. Stanford Law Review, 43(6), 1241-1299. https://doi.org/10.2307/1229039
Moshary, S., Tuchman, A., & Vajravelu, N. (2023). Gender-based pricing in consumer packaged goods: A pink tax? Marketing Science. https://doi.org/10.1287/mksc.2023.1452
Tremonti, A. M. (2016, April 25). Why having women on currency makes sense. The Current [Audio podcast episode]. CBC Radio. https://www.cbc.ca/radio/thecurrent/the-current-for-april-25-2016-1.3551316/why-having-women-on-currency-makes-sense-1.3551329
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