Intersectionality
Introduction to LGBTQ Studies
Dr. Boffone
You will write an intersectionality paper in which you analyze your own identity and positionality. A key analytic development of feminist and queer theory was the theory of intersectionality. Because of this, it is important that you understand how intersectionality works.
In this paper, you will write about your own identity intersectionally, making sure to situate your experiences and identity within systems of oppression and/or privilege.
You will draw connections between these course concepts and your own life experiences by developing a statement of positionality. A statement of positionality describes how your membership in socially constructed categories influences your viewpoint, your experience with privilege and oppression, and your relationship to others. Drawing from the feminist concepts of privilege, oppression, intersectionality and positionality, write an essay that explores how you are located in terms of race, class, gender, sexual orientation, nationality, ethnicity, educational status, religious faith and/or (dis)ability.
***Your essay should explicitly address some of the following questions. Do not answer all of these questions! Use these questions to help you find your approach. As I’ve mentioned many times, you have lots of freedom in regards to the shape and approach of your paper. I’ve had students write graphic novels, plays, short stories, bilingual essays (English and Spanish).
– Describe your relationship to the socially constructed categories that organize our world.
How do you identify/how are you identified in terms of gender, race, class, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, ability, faith, etc?
– In what ways might you occupy a position of privilege in relation to these socially constructed identity categories? In what ways might you occupy an oppressed position?
What are some concrete examples of how privilege and/or oppression affects you, personally?
– How does intersectionality factor in to how you understand your positionality?
– How might your experiences of privilege and/or oppression be related to larger, systemic inequalities?
– In what ways does this assignment impact your thinking about your status in society and your relationship to other people? In what ways does it impact your views on issues related to race, class, sexuality, gender, disability, etc.?
“My Identity”
There are numerous ways to identify who we are. Who are you? How do you identify yourself to others? Who are you to your friends, to your family, to strangers? Who are you at school, work, or other locations such as church or the gym? What about race, class, gender, sexuality, religion,
ableness? Are any of these categories important to how you view yourself? If so, which ones and why? If not, why not? Think about your identity. How would you describe yourself? What does this description say about you? What is the history of your identity? Have you changed? Have you always been the same? Answer one, all, or none of the above questions!
***This is an opportunity to be creative, although you do not have to be! Please feel free to experiment with form, include poetry, monologue, shift in narration, playwriting, interview, etc.
We can write this or a similar paper for you! Simply fill the order form!
