Embodied relational praxis in intersectional organizing: Developing intersectional solidarity

Abstract

AbstractThis qualitative study examines the development of intersectional solidarity among organizers of an academic workers’ union. Participants were 12 union organizers who participated in semistructured, in‐depth interviews. This research is value‐driven, examining in context how community organizers address the reproduction of systems of oppression (e.g., racism, sexism) in order to build power and make socially just change. Respectful and supportive relationships were required for participants to understand and make sense of their complicity in systems of oppression in proactive and potentially transformative ways. Additionally, individuals’ understanding of their complicity with oppressive structures occurred in a visceral, embodied manner. Thus, two overlapping practices, supportive relational labor and corporeal literacy, form the basis of a praxis model for intersectional solidarity. This study concludes with implications for organizing practices and organizations, which focus on accountability practices and praxis among group members.