From sectionalism and sectionality to intersectionality

This chapter interrogates sectionalism and sectionality, discussing intersectionality and its potential to rethink ideas about union collective identity and organizing. The chapter contends that the traditional use of sectionality seems obsolete and there is clear potential for more inclusive and democratic organizing and mobilization through an intersectional approach that places closer attention to how socially constructed categories of difference interplay with the work and employment experiences of particular groups. The framing of single identity in struggle is insufficient to capture the needs of worker groups sitting at the intersection of multiple marginalities so adopting intersectional organizing would enable developing collective identity and organizing activities that resonate with the lived experiences of diverse groups and promote intersectional solidarity to support coalitionist alliances that have stronger potential for social justice and change.