"If feminism has learned anything from the past few decades of controversy over its meaning and direction, it is that it cannot ground its theory and practice upon a unitary axis of oppression and identity." - Kimberlé Crenshaw 

Welcome to the Intersectional Feminist Checklist – a vibrant journey into the heart of equality. This checklist delves into the nuanced dimensions of intersectionality, navigating the intricacies where identities converge. We seek to unravel the layers of feminism that extend far beyond the surface through this checklist. In a world increasingly shaped by diverse experiences, this checklist serves as a scholarly compass, inviting you to critically assess your feminist alignment. Because being an intersectional feminist is not just about breaking ceilings; it's about dismantling the walls that divide us.

Are you ready to explore the spectrum of advocacy? Let's dive in and discover if you're truly riding the waves of intersectional feminism!

Identity Juggler Extraordinaire

   Mastering the art of juggling identities like a pro? If you embrace the complexity of intersecting identities—gender (1), race, class, and beyond—you're not just a feminist; you're an intersectional powerhouse.

Beyond Armchair Advocacy: Ally or Accomplice?

   Are you moving from hashtag activism to real-world accomplice status? True intersectional feminists actively challenge oppressive (2)systems, not just cheer from the sidelines. It's time to ask yourself, are you an ally or an accomplice?

Privilege Checker

   When was the last time you checked your privilege? Intersectional feminists understand the importance of self-awareness. If you're comfortable acknowledging and challenging your own privilege (3), you're leveling up in intersectional advocacy.

Toolkit Variety: Advocacy Edition

   Is your advocacy toolkit diverse? Intersectional feminists don't rely on a one-size-fits-all approach. Your toolkit should be expansive, including everything from policy reform to community engagement. If your strategies are as diverse as the issues you tackle, you're on the right track.

Representation Realist

   Are you demanding genuine representation or settling for token gestures? True intersectional feminists don't applaud surface-level diversity. You're pushing for authentic representation (4), ensuring that all voices are not just heard but amplified.

Structural Savvy Sleuth 

   Can you see the forest beyond the trees? Intersectional feminists comprehend the structural roots of inequality. If you're adept at understanding and dismantling systemic (5) barriers rather than just addressing individual stories, you're navigating the structural terrain with finesse.

Systemic Change Seeker

   Are you aiming for systemic change or settling for incremental shifts? Intersectional feminists don't just want to patch up the system; they're after transformative, root-level change. If you're advocating for policies that address the core issues, you're not just talking the talk but walking the walk.

If you've journeyed through our checklist and found yourself nodding along like an affirmative metronome, you're not just a feminist; you're a bona fide intersectional force. In this world of evolving ideologies, you've embraced the nuanced dance of identities, checked your privilege with finesse, and armed yourself with a diverse toolkit for advocacy. You're not just a bystander; you're an accomplice, steering clear of performative activism and venturing into the realm of tangible change.

End Notes

(1) Gender is a societal and cultural construct encompassing roles, behaviors, and expectations associated with the sex of a person. It goes beyond biological differences, acknowledging the diverse ways individuals express themselves.

(2) Oppressive refers to the unjust exercise of authority, causing harm or limiting freedom. For example, systemic discrimination based on race, such as racial profiling, is a form of oppressive behavior.

(3) Privilege acknowledges unearned advantages some groups have over others due to societal biases.

(4) Authentic representation means portraying diverse experiences accurately. For instance, featuring complex female characters of different backgrounds in media, beyond stereotypes.

(5) Systemic in the context of oppression refers to pervasive structures, policies, and practices that perpetuate disadvantage or advantage certain groups.

References

Denison Education | UN Women | Human Rights Careers | Vox | Plan International