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What are some of the most successful examples of intersectional activism against racism and discrimination around the world?

Sheri Seale

Hey there!

I think one of the most successful examples of intersectional activism against racism and discrimination around the world is the Black Lives Matter movement. It originated in the USA in 2013 as a response to the killing of Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old African American who was fatally shot by a neighborhood watch volunteer. Since then, it has grown into a global movement that addresses issues not just related to police brutality and violence against Black people, but also systemic racism in education, housing, healthcare, and other areas of society.

Another example is the #MeToo movement, which began in 2017 as a response to sexual harassment and assault in the entertainment industry. The movement quickly spread around the world, with women from various industries and backgrounds coming forward to share their stories of abuse and harassment. The movement not only highlighted the prevalence of sexual violence but also the intersectional nature of it, with women of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and other marginalized groups facing higher rates of assault and harassment.

In India, the Dalit Women's Self-Respect Movement is a powerful example of intersectional activism against caste-based discrimination and violence. The movement, led by Dalit women, focuses on issues such as access to education and healthcare, violence against women, and political representation for Dalit communities. It brings together different marginalized groups, such as Dalit women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and religious minorities, to demand justice and rights.

In South Africa, the Fees Must Fall movement was a student-led protest against the high cost of tuition fees and the lack of access to education for Black students. The movement raised awareness of the systemic racism in higher education and forced the government to make changes to the education system. The movement also highlighted the intersection of race and class, as many Black students come from low-income households and face additional barriers to higher education.

The Standing Rock protests in the USA were a successful example of intersectional activism against environmental racism. The protests were led by Indigenous peoples and their allies to oppose the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline on sacred land and to demand the protection of water resources. The protests brought together different groups, such as Indigenous peoples, environmental activists, and human rights advocates, to highlight the intersections of racism, environmental destruction, and corporate greed.

Overall, these examples show that intersectional activism is a powerful tool for addressing complex issues of racism and discrimination. By recognizing the interconnectedness of different forms of oppression and bringing together diverse groups to fight for justice, we can create meaningful change and build a more equitable society.