Exploring Intersectionality, Race, and Gender: Students’ Inspiring Visit to the African American Museum

by Professor Gadis Effendi

On a sunny autumn day in October, students from the Sociology of Gender 208 class visited the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. This field trip allowed them to explore the complex history of race, resilience, and identity. They moved through exhibits that captured the African American experience over centuries and reflected on the diverse experiences that shape identities.

This trip was part of their course requirements, focusing on research related to intersectionality, race, and gender. Students needed to complete three assignments. For the first assignment, they explored Kimberlé Crenshaw’s concept of intersectionality. They discussed how overlapping identities—such as race, gender, class, and sexuality—can combine to affect experiences of discrimination or privilege. They submitted a mini paper for the second assignment based on the Smithsonian Collection’s Black Feminism podcast. The final assignment involved visiting the African American Museum, which provided students with deeper insights into how intersectionality shapes our social landscape and reinforced their commitment to amplifying diverse voices.

Understanding Representation and Empowerment Through an Intersectional Lens

Students were attracted to the “Making a Way Out of No Way” exhibition. In particular, the exhibit “Forces for Change” explores Black women’s activism and the social change agents of both the past and present.

The visit served as a profound reminder that each layer of identity carries a story, and each story has the power to influence future generations. Students’ reflections on the exhibits were insightful and detailed. Isabelle Soden stated, “By placing contemporary themes like gender equity and systemic injustice within the framework of historical resistance movements, exhibits like these provide forums for reflection. By connecting historical struggles to present issues, museums can foster discussions about social justice in the modern era and make these historical accounts relevant to the ongoing fight for equity.” Jay La Mone Salmon expressed a strong sense of belonging and empowerment.

While walking through the museum, I began to feel a sense of belonging and empowerment. Mary McLeod Bethune most inspired me, as she was an activist and a catalyst for the black feminist movement that exists today. She could recognize how race and gender affected black women independently and simultaneously. This recognition made it possible to identify the unique struggles of black women. (Jay La Mone Salmon)

Breaking Barriers at the Intersections: Connecting to Kamala Harris

As the students explored the modern exhibits and watched the video screen, they marveled at Shirley Chislom’s image. They felt she had inspired a whole generation of black women to enter politics. They naturally thought of Vice President Kamala Harris and her historic presidential candidacy. Harris’s life embodies the principles of intersectionality; she is the first Black, South Asian, and female vice president, making her candidacy significant for many marginalized communities. Students’ discussions were full of hope but also anxious about whether the American public was ready for its first female president. Darina Diaz wrote, “I believe the current climate presents hope and obstacles. While there is a push for progress, many still cling to outdated ways of thinking.” Sebastian Lee further discussed how he fears the vitriolic, sexist attacks that Harris faced.

Students left the museum with mixed emotions. Some felt enriched and motivated, while others felt drained and anxious. Students expressed their feelings in the word cloud.

After the museum visit, we held a focus discussion group to reflect on the experience. The students understood that the museum’s stories are more than just history; they teach lessons that encourage future generations to seek fairness and justice. Each story shows the challenges and successes of those who came before, highlighting the strength needed for change. For these young individuals, the visit was a potent reminder of their ability to influence history through their actions and to stay hopeful for positive change in their communities.