While all women can experience violence, discrimination and inequality, these experiences are not the same for everyone. For some people, overlapping forms of disadvantage can increase the risk and impact of gender-based violence. This can include the effects of racism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, classism, ageism and other forms of discrimination experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, women from migrant and refugee backgrounds, people with disabilities, LGBTIQ+ communities, and other marginalised groups.
Taking an intersectional approach means recognising these different experiences and responding in ways that are inclusive, equitable and culturally safe. By understanding the barriers faced by different communities, we can create prevention initiatives that are more relevant, accessible and effective, helping to advance gender equality and prevent gender-based violence for everyone.
Watch this short video to learn more:
What is intersectionality?
An intersectional approach benefits everyone. It helps ensure that prevention initiatives reflect the diverse experiences, strengths and needs of our communities, while reducing the risk that some groups are unintentionally excluded. By centring the experiences of those who face the greatest barriers, we can create initiatives that are more accessible, inclusive and impactful for all.
When we apply intersectionality in our work, we create opportunities to build stronger relationships, nurture inclusion and belonging, promote equity, and support communities where everyone can participate, contribute and thrive.
Below we have listed some resources to assist with your project planning, in a way that considers multiple and diverse experiences and perspectives:
UN Women Intersectionality Resource Guide and Toolkit
First Nations People
LGBTIQ+ Communities
People with Disabilities
Multicultural Communities
Creating inclusive initiatives requires more than representation. It involves identifying and removing barriers to participation, sharing decision-making, and building genuine relationships with diverse communities. Avoid tokenistic approaches by supporting ongoing engagement, listening to community expertise, and creating opportunities for communities to shape activities from the outset.
Seek out partnerships with local organisations and community groups that represent and work alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, LGBTIQ+ communities, multicultural communities, people with disabilities, and other diverse groups when planning and delivering your activities.
Co-design activities with diverse communities, ensuring community members have a meaningful role in shaping, delivering and evaluating initiatives.
Invite representatives, Elders, advocates and experts from diverse communities to speak at your events or take an active role in campaign activities.
Ensure your prevention of violence and gender equality initiatives are inclusive of trans and gender diverse people and reflect their experiences of gendered violence.
Participate in and support events and activities led by local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Book a Welcome to Country from the Traditional Owners of the Country on which your event is held.
Support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses, suppliers and artists. Supply Nation provides a directory of First Nations businesses and suppliers.
Create opportunities to share and amplify the perspectives and experiences of women from refugee and migrant backgrounds.
Use images, stories and campaign materials that reflect the diversity of your community.
Consider accessibility from the beginning of planning, including venue access, transport, sensory needs, captioning and accessible formats.
Remove barriers for people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing by providing Auslan interpreters and ensuring information is available in accessible formats.
Translate promotional materials or key event information into community languages where appropriate.
Offer free or low-cost activities where possible to reduce financial barriers to participation.
Use inclusive language in promotional materials, registration forms and event communications.
If fundraising as part of your event, consider donating a portion of proceeds to organisations such as Djirra, which supports Aboriginal women experiencing family violence.
