Intersectionality is a term that describes how multiple forms of discrimination compound, resulting in the intersectional experience of discrimination, of persons holding multiple identities. For example, both women and persons with disabilities experience discrimination. However, women with disabilities, due to their multiple intersecting or compounding identities, experience it more. 

The terminology was coined by Kimberlee Crenshaw to describe the discrimination faced by a Black woman in the US at work. However, the term was described by women collectives prior. e.g. by the Combahee River Collective and groups of feminist women in the global south. 

Importantly, intersectionality isn’t a competition – we’re not using this tool to judge who is most marginalised within a group. Intersectionality is about looking at how exclusionary systems intersect with the goal of obtaining inclusion and justice for marginalised persons. The figure below illustrates intersectionality.