What is intersectionality? The Center for Intersectional Justice

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About (intersectionaljustice.org)

what is intersectionality (intersectionaljustice.org)

The concept of intersectionality describes the ways in which systems of inequality based on gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, class and other forms of discrimination “intersect” to create unique dynamics and effects. For example, when a Muslim woman wearing the Hijab is being discriminated, it would be impossible to dissociate her female* from her Muslim identity and to isolate the dimension(s) causing her discrimination.

All forms of inequality are mutually reinforcing and must therefore be analysed and addressed simultaneously to prevent one form of inequality from reinforcing another. For example, tackling the gender pay gap alone – without including other dimensions such as race, socio-economic status and immigration status – will likely reinforce inequalities among women.

 

All forms of inequality are mutually reinforcing and must therefore be analysed and addressed simultaneously to prevent one form of inequality from reinforcing another. For example, tackling the gender pay gap alone – without including other dimensions such as race, socio-economic status and immigration status – will likely reinforce inequalities among women.

Intersectionality brings our understanding of systemic injustice and social inequality to the next level by attempting to untangle the lines that create the complex web of inequalities. It is also a practical tool that can be used to tackle intersectional discrimination through policies and laws.

We recognize a limitless range of gender identities and expressions, and embrace those of us who live beyond, against, and outside of the binary. What we mean by “women and men” is neither fixed nor determined.

 

ABOUT

The Center for Intersectional Justice is an independent nonprofit organisation based in Berlin dedicated to advancing equality and justice for all by combating intersecting forms of structural inequality and discrimination in Europe. We envision a world free of systemic oppression in which each individual has access to resources, voice, power and safety. Such a world will only emerge if structural, institutional and historical barriers that have led to marginalization, invisibilization and lack of access and opportunity for minority groups, including women, People of Color and Black people, religious minorities, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQI+ community, working class people, are addressed. At CIJ, we are committed to making visible and gradually dismantling the global hierarchies which continue to place some groups above others, to allow the equitable, fair and non-oppressive treatment of all people.

 


what we do

We bring a paradigmatic shift to anti-discrimination and equality policy at national and European levels and bridge the gap between scholarly research and policymaking on issues of systemic inequality and discrimination. CIJ seeks to influence the public discourse and impact on policymaking through direct advocacy, research and policy advice, as well as publications on issues related to intersectional discriminations based on race, gender, class and all other systems of oppression which sustain inequality. We cover a wide array of policy areas, ranging from employment, education, migration and asylum, to health and the securitization of European states.

If you wish to learn more about our ongoing projects, do not hesitate to contact us!

 

Position: Co -Founder of ENGAGE,a new social venture for the promotion of volunteerism and service and Ideator of Sharing4Good

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