Power, Penalty, and Critical Praxis: Employing Intersectionality in Educator Practices to Achieve School Equity

Abstract

Intersectionality describes the ways interlocking systems of oppression, evidenced in various identity facets (e.g., race, class, gender, sexuality, religion, ability, and language), frame individuals' social worlds. An awareness of intersectionality can ensure PreK–12 school policies and practices meet the needs of a student population diversifying rapidly along multiple lines. We situate intersectionality within examples of common schooling dilemmas and pose suggestions for educators to employ intersectional thinking in their practice.

Key words:

• Culturally relevant pedagogy
• educational policy
• intersectionality
• social justice