Why we need intersectionality in Ghanaian feminist politics and discourses

Abstract

ABSTRACT Although there is some scholarship on intersectionality focusing on African feminist movements, more work needs to be done to examine the importance of employing an intersectional framework to understanding feminisms in Africa. I critically analyze the advocacy work of four feminist groups on social media and digital media platforms. I examine discourses in contemporary feminist movements that are especially visible on digital media and proffer recommendations on how their work can embody an intersectional praxis. I argue that to truly embody a radical praxis in African feminist politics, it is imperative that we employ an intersectional lens to ensure that feminist topics that have historically been pushed to the periphery are centered in our theory and praxis. While digital media provides a platform for voices that would ordinarily be excluded in discussions on feminist activism, it is imperative to pay attention to how these platforms are utilized by activists to (in)advertently exclude the most marginalized from their feminist work. By applying an intersectionality framework to understanding African feminist discourses, we open ourselves up to driving feminist theory and praxis toward emancipatory interventions. This study draws attention to the importance of centering historically marginalized groups in mainstream Ghanaian feminist discourses.