89 - Intersectionality in Evaluation: Capturing the Complexity of Diverse Communities

Abstract Information: Intersectionality is a term coined by legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw that refers to the interconnectedness of various social identities and systems of oppression. In evaluation, intersectionality has become increasingly important as evaluators strive to capture the complexity of diverse communities and the various factors that influence their experiences. Capturing the complexity of diverse communities requires evaluators to adopt a multifaceted approach that considers the intersection of race, gender, sexuality, class, and other identities. To effectively capture the complexity of diverse communities, evaluators must also engage in a participatory and collaborative evaluation process. In addition to engaging in a participatory and collaborative evaluation process, evaluators must also collect and analyze data that captures the intersectional nature of individuals' experiences. What does all this mean for evaluation practitioners? How can we engage with diverse communities in the evaluation process to ensure their perspectives and experiences are centered? How can we improve our own capacities to address the intersectionality of multiple identities (e.g., race, gender, sexuality, class) in our evaluations of programs and policies? What challenges do we have to face in capturing the complexity of diverse communities in evaluation, and how do we address these challenges in our roles as consultants and external evaluators?

Relevance Statement: Intersectionality is a term coined by legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw that refers to the interconnectedness of various social identities and systems of oppression. This concept has gained significant attention in the fields of social justice and evaluation, as it highlights the complex ways in which individuals experience discrimination and marginalization based on the intersection of their identities. In evaluation, intersectionality has become increasingly important as evaluators strive to capture the complexity of diverse communities and the various factors that influence their experiences. Evaluators must recognize that individuals do not experience oppression or privilege based on one singular identity, but rather, it is the intersection of multiple identities that shapes their experiences. For example, a woman of color may face discrimination not only because of her race or gender, but because of the intersection of these identities. Capturing the complexity of diverse communities requires evaluators to adopt a multifaceted approach that considers the intersection of race, gender, sexuality, class, and other identities. Evaluators must recognize that these identities are not isolated, but rather, they intersect and influence one another. This requires evaluators to engage in a process of reflexivity and self-awareness, as they must recognize their own biases and assumptions that may influence their evaluation. To effectively capture the complexity of diverse communities, evaluators must also engage in a participatory and collaborative evaluation process. This involves working closely with the community to ensure that their perspectives and experiences are centered in the evaluation. Evaluators must be mindful of power dynamics and work to create a safe and inclusive space where community members feel comfortable sharing their experiences. In addition to engaging in a participatory and collaborative evaluation process, evaluators must also collect and analyze data that captures the intersectional nature of individuals' experiences. This may involve collecting data on multiple identities and analyzing how they intersect to influence individuals' experiences and the impact of the interventions. For example, an evaluation of a program aimed at increasing educational attainment among low-income communities may collect data on race, gender, and socioeconomic status to understand how these identities intersect and influence individuals' access to education. Intersectionality is a critical concept that is not a one-time consideration, but rather, it must be integrated throughout the evaluation process. This requires evaluators to continuously reflect on the ways in which intersectionality may influence their evaluation and to adapt their approach accordingly. In this session, I will discuss the findings as they relate to intersectionality in evaluation and the role of evaluators in capturing the complexity of diverse communities and the various factors that influence their experiences. I will open the floor for discussion and consultation on priority areas and gaps in the practical aspects of integrating intersectionality throughout the evaluation process as well as the intersectional nature of individuals' experiences, which evaluators can effectively capture to provide insights that promote social justice and equity.