Journal of Social Equity and Public Administration

Black Women Been Knew: Understanding Intersectionality to Advance Justice

Brandi Blessett

University of Minnesota

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24926/jsepa.v1i2.5034

Keywords: Black feminism, intersectionality, equity

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Abstract

Although the term intersectionality was coined by Kimberl. Crenshaw in the late 1980s, Black feminist scholars have long interrogated how having multiple marginalized identities reproduce inequity in their daily lives. Black women have been at the forefront of justice efforts way before it was popular and thus, continue to offer insight into ways to advance justice and equity for not only themselves, but for people and communities experiencing systemic oppression. This article examines Black Feminist Traditions to contextualize how Black women have remained resilient despite systemic racism and injustice. Additionally, this article offers strategies to thoroughly integrate Black Feminist Theory into public administration.

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Author Biography

Brandi Blessett, University of Minnesota

Brandi Blessett, PhD (she/her) (brandib@umn.edu) is an associate professor at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota. She has earned a reputation as a socially conscious researcher, administrator, teacher, and community partner. Her work centers lived experiences to offer robust insights by people burdened by administrative decisions.

 

 

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