This lesson introduces the concept of intersectionality in the workplace, defines key terms, and outlines how overlapping identities shape harassment and inclusion efforts.
Understanding Intersectionality: Foundations and Key Terms
This lesson introduces the concept of intersectionality in the workplace, defines key terms, and outlines how overlapping identities shape harassment and inclusion efforts.
Introduction
Intersectionality is a framework that explains how overlapping identities shape experiences of harassment and inclusion at work. It helps us see why people with multiple identities may face different biases even within the same environment.
Key terms include intersectionality, overlapping identities, bias, microaggressions, privilege, oppression, and systemic barriers. These concepts help us describe complex workplace dynamics.
Identity axes to consider include race, gender, sexual orientation, disability status, caregiver role, age, religion, and language. The combination of these axes creates unique experiences.
Using this lens, we identify compounded challenges and design more inclusive policies and practices.
- Intersectionality describes how identities intersect to shape experiences.
- It highlights overlapping biases and barriers faced by people with multiple identities.
- It informs more effective, inclusive policies and practices.