What Is Intersectionality?

intersections of gender refers to...

How identities intersect with gender

Intersectional research design understands that gender is complex, formed by interwoven identities that intersect and "meet in the middle." Example identities include race, class, age, location, immigration status, religion, ethnicity, ability, indigeneity and income. As a result, gender varies from circumstance to circumstance. The relationships between identities are essential to understanding the human condition. Our identities do not exist in a vacuum. While the idea of isolating gender with laboratory-like precision in order to study it may be appealing, gender is also impossible to consider alone.

How disciplines intersect in gender-related research

Understanding intersections in identity is also essential to understanding anything that ever has anything to do with humans. Which is really everything. Gender is relevant to all issues, and this has brought people together. Intersectionality has grown to shape research designs across a wide range of fields, and while intersectionality argues that gender is situated in the midst of issues, gender is not always the most important issue. You may recognize keywords across disciplines like equity, diversity, marginalized populations, vulnerable populations, human rights and social justice. Intersectional gender-related work is an unprecedented opportunity for cross-discipline collaboration.

How academia and community initiatives intersect

Just like identity doesn't exist in a vacuum, scholarship, the public sphere and the private sphere intersect. The University of Alberta is deeply involved in community initiatives and projects. We aim to further connect researchers and projects with community and government practitioners, policy-makers and experts.