Revisiting Intersectionality Theory: A Multidimensional Application

Intersectionality Theory emerged as a Black feminist criticism of single-axis frameworks applied in antidiscrimination policy and in feminist theory. The central idea in seminal intersectionality theory is that the intersectional experiences of Black women are greater than the combination of single-axis experiences of either racism or sexism. The effects are compounded in the experience of Black women, contributing to further marginalization as they are systematically excluded in discussion of racial policy or feminist theory. Intersectionality theory research to date is narrowly focused on the context within which it was developed. This article discusses findings of two independent research projects, each of which implies a multidimensional application transcending the traditional African American female experience upon which it is based. Intersectionality Theory may provide a pathway to understanding the systematic marginalization by specific phenomenon or cultural experiences of other groups such as Asian Americans, undocumented or first-generation immigrants, or members of the LBGTQ+ community. The potential for further research to expand this theory to broader applications may inform political policy and influence societal change.