Embracing Identity and Capitalizing on Momentum: A Call for Intersectionality

Embracing Identity and Capitalizing on Momentum: A Call for Intersectionality

I am not 'non-white'. I'm black. My parents raised me to be proud of my blackness, just as they were proud of their identity as 'Negroes' in a time when racial discrimination was rampant. The fight against racism and white supremacy cannot be separated from class issues because they are deeply intertwined in a country built on African enslavement. Economic equality alone cannot erase the systemic oppression faced by black individuals. As a black radical feminist, I believe that not-black women must confront their own racism before claiming the title of radical. However, my blackness does not prevent me from working in solidarity with not-blacks or writing for platforms that are not exclusively black-focused.

The term "non-white" is problematic because it centers whiteness and implies that the white population is more important than any other. It categorizes everyone who doesn't have pale skin as "othered" and perpetuates the idea that whiteness is the norm. As a cultural anthropologist, I understand that race is a social construct, but it still holds power and affects our lived experiences. The myth of race did not stop the reality of lynchings and massacres faced by black individuals throughout history. I refuse to be defined solely by a negative, as black is not just a racial identity but also a source of beauty and culture for me.

On a different note, the recent Women's World Cup has created a significant opportunity for the A-Leagues to capitalize on the hype and grow the sport. However, history has shown that Australian football struggles to sustain success after moments in the spotlight. Matildas legend Elise Kellond-Knight emphasized the need for a "world-class product" in the league to maintain momentum. This requires financial investment, as money plays a crucial role in any endeavor. Unfortunately, Australian football has always faced a shortage of funds, hindering its progress.

The A-League Women, in particular, has not received the necessary investment, even amidst the federal government's $200 million package for women's sport. APL chief executive Danny Townsend is advocating for government support to fund broadcast, expansion, community outreach programs, tentpole fixtures, and the inclusion of marquee Matildas in the league. The cost of broadcasting an A-League Women's match ranges from $18k for a basic production to $80k for a full production. Matching this investment with contributions from club owners would pave the way for sustainability.

To address these issues, here are three actionable steps that can be taken:

1. Intersectional Collaboration: Recognize the interconnected nature of social issues and work collaboratively across different movements and communities. By building coalitions and supporting each other's causes, progress can be made on multiple fronts.

2. Financial Investment: Governments, sponsors, and supporters should prioritize investing in women's sports, including the A-League Women. Adequate funding will allow for the development of a world-class product, attracting more fans and sustaining momentum.

3. Representation and Inclusion: Ensure that diverse voices and experiences are represented in decision-making processes and media coverage. This will contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society and encourage broader support for women's sports.

In conclusion, embracing our identities and recognizing the intersectionality of social issues is essential for progress. We must reject the term "non-white" and center our experiences and cultures instead of conforming to the normative standards of whiteness. Simultaneously, investing in women's sports, such as the A-League Women, is crucial for capitalizing on the momentum created by events like the Women's World Cup. By taking action and prioritizing financial support, representation, and collaboration, we can create a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.