CHAPTER 02 Navigating Intersectionality in Australian Journalism and Media "The way we imagine discrimination or disempowerment often is more complicated for people who are subjected to multiple forms of exclusion. The good news is that intersectionality provides us a way to see it." — Professor Kimberle Williams Crenshaw Intersectionality, a term originated by Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw, acknowledges the complex, overlapping, and interconnected nature of systems of oppression that rely on socially constructed categorisations like race, gender, class, sexual orientation, ability, and beyond. These categories intertwine, influencing each person's distinct experiences and position within society. The idea is intersectionality gets us to critically think about who is left behind or not included, why and in what context. Embracing intersectionality requires a different practical approach depending on the role you play in a media organisation. It also involves self-reflection on the power and privilege you may wield over others in your organisation, dependent on your identity and role. DIVERSITY DIMENSION DEFINITIONS: GENDER RACE Race is a mechanism of power based on the idea that people have shared heritable physiological and/or cultural characteristics. These are assumed to be fixed and unchangeable. Refer to the ‘How to Use this guide’ page for extended definition. Socially constructed roles, behaviours, activities, and identities that a given society considers appropriate for men, women, and other gender identities. SEXUAL ORIENTATION | CHAPTER 02 A person’s emotional, romantic, or sexual attraction to others. 21