Circles of Power

The circles of power represent the different dimensions of diversity. Diversity is a measure of differences among a group, and those differences can exist in a variety of combinations, but this is what makes each of us unique. As humans, we have intersecting identities, and not one element makes up someone's complete identity.

We need to understand that if we are privileged in one way, such as by skin colour, perceived race, or ethnicity as a white person, this does not negate the marginalization we may have experienced in other areas of our life, whether that is socioeconomic status, gender identity or expression, ability or age.

It’s important to acknowledge the many and complex ways in which we are all an intersection of many identities, some which provide us with certain privileges, and others which cause marginalization. Multiple areas of marginalization can overlap and impact our colleagues in various and nuanced ways based on their identities.

To quote Kimberlé Crenshaw, “Intersectionality is a lens through which you can see where power comes and collides, where it locks and intersects. It is the acknowledgement that everyone has their own unique experiences of discrimination and privilege”.