The 8-Inclusion Needs of All People: A Proposed Framework to Address Intersectionality in Efforts to Prevent Discrimination

Abstract

Since Kimberlé Crenshaw conceived the theory and concept of intersectionality in 1989, intersectional research has flourished. However, despite there being a significant increase in the understanding of the lived-experience of people, there has not been enough progress toward eliminating discrimination and achieving equality for all. This paper begins by highlighting the current state of inclusion, then reviews existing research on the application of intersectionality in efforts to address discrimination. The literature review includes an overview of several existing models designed to assist the application of intersectionality in reducing discrimination, followed by the identification of need for a framework that is practical, operationalizable, and addresses the needs of all people and intersectionalities. In light of the identified gap, an analysis of existing research on the discrimination causes of 13 individual identities and 5 intersectional identities was undertaken, from which eight common themes emerged. In light of the findings, a proposed new framework, called The 8-Inclusion Needs of All People, is presented. The framework is then illustrated with recommendations for application in government and policy making, the law, advocacy work, and in organizations with the goal of providing a useful framework for expediting social justice and equitable outcomes for all people.

Inclusion Needs Through the Lens of Intersectionality: Evidence supporting The 8-Inclusion Needs of All People Framework

“…The construction of the 8-Inclusion Needs of all People framework (refer to image 1) by Dr. Liz Wilson (2023) presents eight recurring themes in pursuit of establishing a pragmatic operationalizable framework for addressing the multifaceted needs of individuals across all actions and contexts.…”

“…Image 1. The 8-Inclusion Needs of all People (Wilson, 2023) The 8-Inclusion Needs of All People framework:…”

“…Support -Ensuring additional support is provided to enable all people to achieve desired outcomes. Wilson (2023) proposes The 8-Inclusion Needs of All People framework as a practical and actionable approach to guide decision-making and evaluate choices and potential outcomes based on eight inclusion needs. This proposed approach overcomes the challenges of attempting to address diversity and inclusion one identity at a time, or by the extensive array of possible intersectional identities.…”

“…Simultaneously remaining attuned to the distinct oppressions and lived experiences of specific identities (Warner et al, 2016), facilitating equitable transformation and inclusion for all identities (Thomas et al, 2021). Notably, it also has the potential to serve as a conduit for individual identities to connect and collaborate collectively in new ways for inclusive outcomes for everyone (Wilson, 2023)…”

“…Thematic analysis of participant responses resulted in support of all inclusion needs proposed in Wilson"s (2023) 8-Inclusion Needs of All People framework; Access, Space, Opportunity, Allowance, Representation, Language, Respect, and Support. Consequently, this research paper provides empirical evidence on the applicability of the 8-Inclusion Needs of All People framework, as proposed by Wilson (2023), in addressing multifaceted inclusion needs through the lens of intersectionality to prevent discrimination and promote equity and equal outcomes for all people. Further, as underscored by the participant's insights, it is essential to pivot from conventional approaches that endeavour to assimilate individual identities into pre-existing structures towards a more progressive stance that actively create inclusive organizations to embrace the diverse tapestry and inclusion needs of all people and their intersectionalities.…”