Understanding Intersectionality: Why Every Identity Matters

In conversations about diversity and inclusion, the term “intersectionality” is becoming more and more common—and for good reason. As we continue to build a Canada that values justice, equity, and representation, it’s critical that we understand how people’s identities overlap and influence their lived experiences.

At its core, intersectionality reminds us that no one is defined by a single characteristic. A person may be Black, a woman, an immigrant, and living with a disability—all at the same time. Each of these identities impacts their access to opportunities, the challenges they face, and how they’re treated in society.

At the Canadian Council of Multiculturalism and Cohesion (COMAC), we recognise that every identity matters, and inclusion efforts must reflect the full complexity of people’s lives—not just individual labels.

What is Intersectionality?

The term “intersectionality” was first coined by legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw in the late 1980s to explain how different forms of discrimination can combine and overlap. While originally used in the context of Black women’s experiences, it has since expanded to include a wide range of intersecting identities, including race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, religion, disability, immigration status, and more.

Intersectionality helps us see the full picture. It shows us that a solution addressing only one type of inequality may miss the unique struggles faced by those experiencing multiple forms of marginalisation.

Why It Matters in a Canadian Context

Canada is one of the most diverse countries in the world. Our commitment to multiculturalism means that people of all backgrounds are welcome but welcoming diversity also means understanding how different identities interact.

A newcomer woman of colour may face barriers in employment that differ from those of a white male immigrant. A queer Indigenous youth may face discrimination both within and outside their own community. These experiences cannot be understood through a single lens.

Policies that are truly inclusive must consider these overlaps. That’s why COMAC supports advocacy, education, and grassroots initiatives that centre the voices of those living at the intersections of different identities. You can read more about our work and guiding principles on our About page.

Intersectionality in Action

Intersectionality shows up in everyday life and community work:

• In healthcare, it means understanding how race, language barriers, and disability affect access to quality care.
• In education, it means addressing how poverty, cultural background, and learning differences affect student outcomes.
• In policy-making, it means ensuring that no community is left behind when laws and initiatives are introduced.

It also matters in advocacy. When we fight for women’s rights, we must include all women cisgender, transgender, Indigenous, racialised, disabled, and undocumented. When we support refugee rights, we must understand how LGBTQ+ refugees face different dangers and needs.

Building a Truly Inclusive Society

Inclusion is not achieved by treating everyone the same it’s about understanding and responding to differences fairly. Intersectionality challenges us to move beyond surface level diversity and dig deeper into the lived experiences of individuals.

This work requires listening to those with lived experience, partnering with communities, and changing systems that create barriers for people living at multiple intersections of identity.

At COMAC, we are committed to this work. Whether through youth engagement, newcomer support, or national advocacy, our initiatives are built around the belief that no one should be left behind because of who they are or where they come from.

Conclusion: Every Identity Matters

Inclusion isn’t meaningful unless it’s inclusive of everyone. Recognising intersectionality helps us understand the richness and complexity of human identity and ensures that we don’t unintentionally exclude the very people who most need to be heard.

By embracing intersectionality, we can create a more just, compassionate, and cohesive Canada where every individual feels seen, respected, and empowered.

Learn more about our mission to promote inclusion, equity, and community cohesion at COMAC.