Intersectionality and Everyday Antiracism: How to Make Change Real

Antiracism isn’t just about fighting one form of injustice—it’s about recognizing how race, gender, sexuality, class, and ability intersect to shape unique experiences. Kimberlé Crenshaw first coined the term 'intersectionality' to describe how Black women face overlapping forms of discrimination that can’t be understood in isolation. Ibram X. Kendi builds on this idea, urging readers to embrace all aspects of identity in the work of antiracism.

People with multiple marginalized identities—such as LGBTQ+ people of color or disabled immigrants—face challenges that are more than the sum of each part. Their stories reveal the importance of seeing the whole person and addressing all forms of oppression together. Kendi’s book is full of examples of resilience, showing how solidarity across differences can create powerful movements for change.

But theory must become practice. Antiracism is something we do, not just something we believe. This means challenging bias in everyday interactions, supporting equitable policies, and building communities where everyone feels seen and valued. It also means forgiving ourselves and others for mistakes, and staying committed to growth.

Everyday antiracism can look like speaking up when you hear a stereotype, advocating for fairer hiring practices at work, or simply listening to someone whose experience is different from your own. Change is built from these small, consistent actions. The journey is ongoing, but every step matters.

Kendi’s message is clear: the work of antiracism belongs to all of us, and together, we can make change real—one day, one choice, one community at a time.