DEI DEI Intersectionality and Identity

Question 1

Who coined the term 'intersectionality' and in what context?

Accepted Answer

Kimberlé Crenshaw, in analyzing Black women's legal discrimination cases

Answer

Gloria Steinem, in a feminist manifesto

Answer

bell hooks, in critiquing mainstream feminism

Answer

Audre Lorde, in her poetry on identity

Question 2

What does intersectionality explain about identity in a DEI context?

Accepted Answer

That individuals hold multiple social identities that interact to shape unique experiences of privilege and disadvantage

Answer

That all forms of diversity are equally impactful in every situation

Answer

That identity is static and determined solely by race

Answer

That privilege and disadvantage cancel each other out across identities

Question 3

Which of the following best illustrates intersectional disadvantage in the workplace?

Accepted Answer

A Black woman being passed over for promotion despite qualifications, in a pattern not seen for white women or Black men separately

Answer

A white male manager receiving a performance bonus

Answer

An immigrant employee earning the same salary as a US-born peer

Answer

A disabled employee using accessible facilities

Question 4

Why is a single-axis diversity framework considered insufficient according to intersectionality theory?

Accepted Answer

It treats identity categories as mutually exclusive and misses compounded disparities

Answer

It is too expensive to implement

Answer

It requires too many employee surveys

Answer

It focuses too heavily on pay equity

Question 5

How does intersectionality apply to DEI program design?

Accepted Answer

Programs should consider how different combinations of identities create distinct barriers that require tailored solutions

Answer

Programs should target only the most statistically underrepresented single group

Answer

Programs should treat all employees identically regardless of background

Answer

Programs should prioritize gender equity over all other dimensions

Question 6

What is 'matrix of domination' as used in intersectionality theory?

Accepted Answer

A conceptual framework describing how systems of race, class, and gender oppression interact at structural, disciplinary, hegemonic, and interpersonal levels

Answer

A corporate organizational chart showing power hierarchy

Answer

A tool for ranking employees by seniority

Answer

A grid used in 360-degree performance reviews