Intersectionality
Dr. John W. Jackson and Dr. Jaime Slaughter-Acey
Intersectionality is an analytical framework or lens that examines how multiple axes of injustice and power (e.g., racism and sexism) act together in synergistic ways to uniquely shape the life experience and outcomes of persons situated at varying social positions. As described by Collins (2019), intersectionality often encompasses the following core constructs: relationality, power, social inequality, social context, complexity, and social justice. Over the past decade, intersectionality has gained traction as a powerful frame for examining injustice and inequity in medicine and public health. Over the past decade, the field of epidemiology has been exploring a myriad of ways to incorporate its perspective and richness in empirical research. Below we provide some accessible articles on the importance and potential for intersectional perspectives along with some reviews of how these ideas can be incorporated into empirical studies. This is a continually evolving field, so these articles are not given to be prescriptive, but rather to encourage critical reflection and creativity.