Define 'intersectionality' and describe its relevance to DEI initiatives.

Intersectionality is the interconnected nature of social categorizations such as race, class, gender, and sexual orientation, which create overlapping systems of discrimination or disadvantage. It recognizes that individuals experience oppression and privilege based on multiple aspects of their identity simultaneously, not just one at a time. For example, a Black woman might face discrimination based on both her race and her gender, which compounds into a unique set of challenges distinct from those faced by a white woman or a Black man. Its relevance to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives is crucial because it emphasizes the need for approaches that address the complexities of individuals' lived experiences, rather than implementing one-size-fits-all solutions. DEI initiatives informed by intersectionality aim to create more inclusive environments by recognizing and dismantling the various intersecting forms of oppression that individuals may face, ensuring that support and opportunities are tailored to their specific needs.