Power on the Margins: Navigating the Program Director Role as an Asian, Queer, Immigrant Woman in Canada

Abstract

One of the principles of general systems theory is nonsummativity; the whole is larger than the sum of its parts (Bertalanffy, General system theory: Foundations, development, applications. George Braziller, New York, 1969). Crenshaw (University of Chicago Legal Forum, 1989) describes this nonsummativity from a multiple identities perspective: intersectionality. The experience of an Asian woman cannot be grasped by breaking it down into experiences of Asians and women. My identity as an Asian, queer, immigrant woman adds more layers of complexity, and the power associated with my professional role as an MFT program director is interwoven in my intersectional identity. A brief account of my life story provides context to the social location from which I understand my world. I illustrate how intersectional experiences are often confusing, and how having power influences my responses to others in my professional life. Although intersectionality often makes us invisible, my newly acquired power offers visibility within the institution. It brings shifts; some are empowering and others warrant awareness and caution. Power and visibility come with responsibility. My responsibility is to take up space as often as I can—even if that is uncomfortable for me—and open up space for others who are invisible. When systems are rigid, my goal is to use the power I have to respectfully demand that they expand and grow.