Why LGBTQIA+ Support Should Always Be Intersectional
There are boxes in front of you that read “orange things,” “round things,” and “hard things.”
You spot the random objects on the floor and begin to start the categorization process. You’re having a hard time choosing where to start. You thought that this would be a fairly easy process, but you’re kind of stumped.
A basketball sits in front of you. You’re unsure which box to place it in because it could be any of the three. You were about to put LEGO blocks in the hard things, but there were some orange and round pieces.
You realize these boxes aren’t properly labeled. All of these items could be split into a variety of different boxes.
It’s kind of like people. People are like onions. They have multiple layers that make them into the person they are today. Their identity isn’t just one single thing, it incorporates multiple aspects of their life and chosen identities.
Let’s learn more about why it’s important for LGBTQIA+ support to be intersectional.
What Does Intersectional Support Mean?
Each and every single person in this world is different, even identical twins. No two people will be exactly the same. Each and every person will have their own ability, age, class, disability, gender identity, nationality, race, sexual orientation, and life experiences. A person can’t be defined by just one of these categories or characteristics. People have multiple layers that make them into who they are and affect how they think, act, and behave in their lives. Intersectionality is the balance between the way that someone chooses to identify and live their life.
How to Incorporate Intersectionality
Without intersectionality, the needs of individuals will be impacted, especially minority groups. Without intersectionality, it would be like a person showing up to a hospital with multiple injuries and a doctor only focusing and trying to help resolve one of the many areas. You can’t expect to truly feel like you’re helping someone if you’re only working to help one part of them. It’s important to be aware of intersectionality and work towards incorporating it into support. Here’s how you can turn the awareness of intersectionality into action.
Educate Yourself
Take the time to do the research and educate yourself. One of the best ways to help is to learn more and not depend on others to do the work for you. Be committed. Work towards having a better understanding of improving yourself.
Consider the Needs of Others
It’s very likely that your wants and needs are going to be different from a family member, a friend, a coworker, a neighbor, or a complete stranger that you pass on the sidewalk. Try to think before speaking and acting. Consider the impact of your actions on not only yourself and your own life but also others. All of your decisions in life can have a domino effect. Your voice, decisions, and actions impact others.
Hold Yourself Accountable
The next step in considering the needs of others is to hold yourself accountable. It’s okay if you make mistakes from time to time. No one is perfect, but if you can fix those mistakes and improve, you’ll work towards getting better each and every day.
Next Steps
Intersectionality is extremely important, especially when it comes to supporting others, especially minority groups like the LGBTQ+ community. All LGBTQIA+ support should be intersectional, no questions asked.
If you’re interested in learning more about intersectionality or seeking support that incorporates intersectional support, look no further. We understand that everyone has their own unique experiences, positive and negative, that make them into the individuals they are today. Reach out to us today if you’re interested in setting up a consultation for LGBTQIA+ counseling.